The QCSO Association announces the following full time, artistic opening:

MUSIC DIRECTOR OF THE QUAD CITY SYMPHONY YOUTH ENSEMBLES (QCSYE MD) & ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR OF THE QUAD CITY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (QCSO AC)

JOB SUMMARY:
The Quad City Symphony Youth Ensembles Music Director and Quad City Symphony Orchestra Assistant Conductor (QCSYE MD/QCSO AC) is a combined permanent full time exempt position. As QCSYE MD, they are responsible for the artistic operation and development of the Quad City Symphony Youth Ensembles (QCSYE). They are the QCSYE’s primary conductor and will conduct the Youth Symphony Orchestras (YSO) and the Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (YPO). They exercise authority in all artistic matters according to the advice and guidelines of the Education Committee (EduC), QCSO Music Director (MD), Executive Director (ED), Director of Education & Community Engagement (DECE) and the Youth Ensembles Coordinator (YEC) including repertoire selection, placement auditions, seating auditions, rehearsals, competitions, and selection of players and guest artists. As QCSO AC, they are responsible for preparing and conducting the orchestra in concerts of every type as necessary. They will assist in programming, guest artist selection, and auditions if needed. They will cover for Music Director and guest conductors in all QCSO orchestra concerts.

The QCSYE MD/QCSO AC will report jointly to the MD (artistic) and ED (administrative), and they will serve as artistic liaison with educational institutions and community groups to promote constructive working partnerships to further the mission of the QCSO and QCSYE.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

QCSYE MUSIC DIRECTOR
Musical Requirements

The QCSYE Music Director must have proven success as a music educator and conductor; have extensive knowledge of orchestral literature at all levels; know the “standard repertoire” from an interpretive aspect; have intimate knowledge of the technical and musical problems the students will encounter in specific pieces; have knowledge of arrangements and transcriptions that are available for younger orchestras; perform or have performed at a high level (professional preferred) on an instrument; have a good understanding of orchestral bowings and similar techniques with all other instruments.

Artistic Responsibilities 

• Collaborate with the EduC, MD, ED, DECE, and YEC in developing short-range and long-range plans for the QCSYE including rehearsal schedules, concerts, program themes, special events, master classes, clinics and audience development. 
• Conduct all rehearsals, performances, and special events of the YSO and YPO. Requested absences may be approved by MD and ED in close coordination with DECE and YEC. 
• Select appropriate works to be performed considering the level of difficulty for the YSO and YPO. Oversee repertoire selection for all ensembles. Stay abreast of repertoire appropriate for youth instrumentalists; determine level of difficulty for different groups; ensure effective use of all orchestra players. 
• Determine the individual rehearsal schedule required for the YSO and YPO within the season schedule in collaboration with the DECE and YEC.
• Oversee and direct the placement audition process for all new and returning students by listening to each placement audition and selecting audition excerpts for YPO and YSO.
• Determine the process for seating auditions and seating placements within each section and prepare seating charts for each concert cycle.
• Determine the stage setup to present the QCSYE at its best acoustically and visually and communicate set up to the YEC.
• Supervise the work of the QCSYE staff conductors. Exercise leadership in developing the total artistic quality of the QCSYE.
• Oversee the selection and hiring of coaches, clinicians, judges, and guest artists as approved in the QCSYE season budget.
• Inform guest conductors and sectional coaches of rehearsal priorities to ensure that each rehearsal and sectional furthers the progress of the ensembles.
• Select staff conductors, sectional coaches and judges for auditions and competitions in consultation with the DECE. 

Library 

• Oversee the production of parts and scores including bowings and any additional markings for YPO and YSO with all materials submitted to QCSO Music Librarian six (6) weeks before music is prepared for folders.
• Make requests to the YEC and QCSO Librarian for music purchases or rentals more than six (6) weeks before a scheduled rehearsal with the music, clearing in advance any transaction outside of approved budget. 

Weekly Rehearsal and Concert Production 

• Provide repertoire listing to YEC no later than six (6) weeks prior to the concert for printed programs. 
• Ensure that all required equipment including, percussion lists, etc. required for rehearsals and performances is arranged with the YEC at least one week ahead of a scheduled event.
• Ensure that any written communication sent to QCSYE families is submitted no later than Tuesday morning to send to families. 

 Public Relations 

• Nurture and maintain communication with area orchestra and band teachers serving as the orchestra’s artistic liaison to the schools; develop a collaborative working relationship. 
• Actively recruit new members for QCSYE by distributing brochures and serving as a guest clinician in area schools.
• Visit no fewer than 10 schools each school year to work with area students, recruit for the ensembles and act as a resource for music education.
• Help the organization develop and maintain a positive image in the community and beyond.
• Play a visible and active role in the community; promote the QCSYE by being available for public appearances. 

General Responsibilities 

• Communicate in a timely, complete, and consistent manner during the work week. 
• Ensure clear and timely communication with orchestra members and parents regarding schedules, as well as expectations regarding attendance, participation, rehearsals, behavior and other appropriate rules and orchestra practices. 
• Stay abreast of artistic activities in the orchestra field, youth orchestra field, and music education field; recommend to the EduC, ED, DECE, and YEC new activities that may advance the orchestra’s objectives. 
• Assist in creation and support all QCSYE policies and procedures. Report any infractions and problems to the YEC. 
• Follow and enforce rules and procedures set by host institutions for rehearsal and concert facilities. 

• Inform the YEC and DECE of any personal absences as far in advance as possible and be responsible for securing an appropriate substitute if unable to meet the schedule of rehearsals. 
• Serve as a non-voting member of the EduC, attend meeting and provide the MD’s report on the artistic activities of the orchestras. 
• At all times while working on behalf of the QCSO, the conductor will behave in a professional, respectful, and appropriate manner within the guidelines of the QCSO Handbook. The conductor must comply with all appropriate federal, state, and local laws regarding sexual and other forms of harassment, and anti-­ discrimination. 
• Working with the EduC, ED, DECE, and YEC, see that the educational mission of the organization’s strategic direction is effectively executed through the successful operations of the QCSYE.   
• Monitor progress on the organization’s strategic direction on a regular basis and provide input to the ED, DECE, and YEC on areas relevant to QCSYE.  

 Personal Characteristics
The QCSYE Music Director must be enthusiastic and possess the high energy level necessary for working effectively with vital, active music students. They must also have high musical expectations for the QCSYE members coupled with humanity and empathy for them as students engaged in a physically, musically, and emotionally developmental process. QCSYE MD The QCSYE Music Director must: 

• be willing to make a large commitment to this program. The season is roughly 30-32 weeks of rehearsals and concerts from August through May. The QCSYE Music Director should be willing to commit to the program for a considerable period of time, so that it can continue without disruption and make the Quad Cities her/his primary residence.
• possess a basic understanding of developmental psychology to ensure they communicate and set expectations for students that are age appropriate.
• believe in the value of a youth orchestra program like that of the QCSYE and articulate the importance of each of the ensembles in the QCSYE program.
• possess leadership and management skills that will enable him/her to:
  • recruit, interview and make recommendations concerning staff,
  • organize a plan and allocate time and space for rehearsals,
  • review and approve music for purchase and for programming for all groups,
  • meet with conducting staff periodically, individually or in groups, to ensure consistency in musical expectations for all groups,
  • be able to communicate effectively with students, parents, the public and the press on matters relating to the QCSYE,
  • Writes thank-you notes and student recommendations as appropriate.

QCSO ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR
Musical Requirements 

• Advise the staff on musical matters in the absence of the QCSO Music Director (MD). Informs MD of orchestra performance particulars in absence of the music director. 
• Program in agreement with the MD and conduct rehearsals and performances of special concerts as requested subject to the needs of the Association. 
• Assist MD in rehearsal planning and occasionally conduct during rehearsal. Assist in assessing balances during rehearsals and concerts. Prepare complete score to performance level. Attend all rehearsals and performances for all QCSO performances except when excused by MD. Serve as cover conductor for all QCSO services. 

• Promote the Association through personal contacts, speaking engagements and radio interviews. 
• Keep track of MD’s preferred performances for rebroadcast of WVIK and other media, listening for performance errors and recommends choice in collaboration with MD. 
• Participate in all pre-concert talks as requested. 
• Conduct rehearsals and performances of non-Masterworks concerts including, but not limited to, Riverfront Pops, Family Concerts, and any others, arranges, writes scripts and prepares special effects, as needed. 
• At the determination of the MD, may be invited to conduct part or all of a QCSO Masterworks Concert.
• Work with the QCSO Orchestra Personnel Manager to ensure efficient and professional rehearsals and concerts adhering to the CBA. 

Planning and Strategy 

• Working with the EduC, ED, and DECE, see that the Educational and Community Engagement components of the organization’s strategic plan are effectively executed. 
• Monitor progress on the organization’s strategic plan on a regular basis and provide input to the ED and DECE on areas relevant to education and community engagement. 

• In accordance with the organization’s strategic plan, work with the DECE on community engagement activities that serve to deepen engagement with existing stakeholders and build new relationships with individuals and organizations. 
• Participate in regular evaluation of ongoing engagement efforts and improve upon them as needed. 
• Participate in the development of bold, concrete plans that will allow the QCSOA to continue to serve as a regional and national leader in the areas of community engagement. 
• Participate in the marketing of all educational programs, including brochures, newsletters, flyers, and advertisements as necessary. 
• Cultivate and maintain professional relationships with the local school district, community colleges, and other educational/civic institutions. Act as a spokesperson for the Association in education matters.
• Assist the ED and fundraising team in fund raising activities, including annual fund drive, corporate sponsorships, special events, endowment campaigns, planned giving program, and identification and cultivation of donors as needed. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• This position requires excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to relate to a diverse population, and the ability and willingness to model the mission and high standard of behavior of QCSO.   
• Must be able to handle multiple projects with a strong attention to detail.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Music or Music Education required, Master’s Degree in Music preferred.
• 3 years of job experience in supervising artistic music projects as a conductor and educator preferred.
• Excellent computer skills and ability to learn new technology.
• Ability to work with limited supervision, prioritize work, and meet deadlines with a high degree of detail orientation and accuracy.
• Ability to work with a diverse group of colleagues, QCSYE students, QCSYE parents, QCSO musicians, and community members. 
• Must be able to listen, hear, speak, read, write, climb stairs, bend, stoop, and stand for intermittently long periods of time.  
• This job description is subject to change and is not designed to be a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required by the employee.  
• Employment is contingent with passing a complete background check. 

COMPENSATION: Compensation for this permanent full time exempt position is competitive and commensurate with experience.  Benefits include paid time off, health insurance, and retirement savings option.
START DATE: May 15, 2024

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Please send a letter of intent and resume with three references* via email to: Brian Baxter, Executive Director, bbaxter@qcso.org, no phone calls please.
*References should include phone number and email. References will remain strictly confidential and will only be contacted after an applicant has completed at least one in-person interview. Do not include letters of recommendation. 

SELECTION PROCESS:
Applications will be paper-screened and those exhibiting superior qualifications will be invited as semi-finalists to a zoom interview.  Zoom interviews will take place in November and December 2023.  Finalists will be selected from among this pool of semi-finalists and will be invited to an in-person finalist day of events in the Quad Cities.  This day will include an interview, podium time in front of YSO and YPO, a chance to meet constituents, and the opportunity to experience the community.  The tentative in-person finalist dates will be Sunday, January 28, 2024 and Sunday, February 4, 2024. These dates are subject to change. 

 The QCSOA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. The QCSO strives to maintain a workplace that fosters mutual employee respect and promotes harmonious, productive working relationships. QCSO believes that discrimination and harassment in any form constitute misconduct that undermines the integrity of the employment relationship. Therefore, all employment decisions at the QCSOA are based on merit, individual qualifications, and job requirements, without regard to age, color, creed, physical or mental disability (including HIV-positive status), gender identity (including transgender or transsexual status), national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristics protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. The QCSOA will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. 

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is looking to hire experienced music teachers to establish private teaching studios within the Quad Cities in an effort to help us continue to grow our Private Lesson Program (PLP).

Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare lessons in relation to individual students’ needs
• Teach music theory, aural skills and practical techniques to students as needed to fully participate in lessons and ensembles.
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with a complete list of required materials
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with desired teaching days/rates.
• Provide the QCSO Director of Finance with logs of lessons taught according to pay date schedule for the purpose of payroll and invoicing to students.
• Motivate students and encourage progress
• Communicate with Director of Education and Community Engagement.
• Ensure up-to-date knowledge and awareness of honor band and orchestra audition requirements (IMEA, ILMEA, etc.)
• Foster an environment within the teaching studio of constructive feedback and open communication with parents.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Music in Performance or Education or required. (Performance Diplomas also considered)
• Demonstrable knowledge of music curriculum and the ability to implement it
• Ability to interact collaboratively with students, parents, and administration
• Excellent oral and written skills
• Able to pass a local background check
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to thrive working in a team environment

Compensation

• Instructors will be classified as employees of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and will be paid on the 15^th and 30^th of each month via direct deposit.
• Instructors will set their own lesson length/dates/rates.
• The QCSO is solely responsible for collecting lesson fees.

Application Procedure:
Interested parties should submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your teaching philosophy to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org. No phone calls, please. Review of applications will begin immediately, and applications will be reviewed until PLP needs are met. Questions about the position can be directed to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is looking to hire experienced music teachers to establish private teaching studios within the Quad Cities in an effort to help us continue to grow our Private Lesson Program (PLP).

Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare lessons in relation to individual students’ needs
• Teach music theory, aural skills and practical techniques to students as needed to fully participate in lessons and ensembles.
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with a complete list of required materials
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with desired teaching days/rates.
• Provide the QCSO Director of Finance with logs of lessons taught according to pay date schedule for the purpose of payroll and invoicing to students.
• Motivate students and encourage progress
• Communicate with Director of Education and Community Engagement.
• Ensure up-to-date knowledge and awareness of honor band and orchestra audition requirements (IMEA, ILMEA, etc.)
• Foster an environment within the teaching studio of constructive feedback and open communication with parents.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Music in Performance or Education or required. (Performance Diplomas also considered)
• Demonstrable knowledge of music curriculum and the ability to implement it
• Ability to interact collaboratively with students, parents, and administration
• Excellent oral and written skills
• Able to pass a local background check
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to thrive working in a team environment

Compensation

• Instructors will be classified as employees of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and will be paid on the 15^th and 30^th of each month via direct deposit.
• Instructors will set their own lesson length/dates/rates.
• The QCSO is solely responsible for collecting lesson fees.

Application Procedure:
Interested parties should submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your teaching philosophy to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org. No phone calls, please. Review of applications will begin immediately, and applications will be reviewed until PLP needs are met. Questions about the position can be directed to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is looking to hire experienced music teachers to establish private teaching studios within the Quad Cities in an effort to help us continue to grow our Private Lesson Program (PLP).

Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare lessons in relation to individual students’ needs
• Teach music theory, aural skills and practical techniques to students as needed to fully participate in lessons and ensembles.
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with a complete list of required materials
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with desired teaching days/rates.
• Provide the QCSO Director of Finance with logs of lessons taught according to pay date schedule for the purpose of payroll and invoicing to students.
• Motivate students and encourage progress
• Communicate with Director of Education and Community Engagement.
• Foster an environment within the teaching studio of constructive feedback and open communication with parents.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Music in Performance or Education is required. (Performance Diplomas also considered)
• Demonstrable knowledge of music curriculum and the ability to implement it
• Ability to interact collaboratively with students, parents, and administration
• Excellent oral and written skills
• Able to pass a local background check
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to thrive working in a team environment

Compensation

• Instructors will be classified as employees of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and will be paid on the 15^th and 30^th of each month via direct deposit.
• Instructors will set their own lesson length/dates/rates.
• The QCSO is solely responsible for collecting lesson fees.

Application Procedure:
Interested parties should submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your teaching philosophy to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org. No phone calls, please. Review of applications will begin immediately, and applications will be reviewed until PLP needs are met. Questions about the position can be directed to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is looking to hire experienced music teachers to establish private teaching studios within the Quad Cities in an effort to help us continue to grow our Private Lesson Program (PLP).

Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare lessons in relation to individual students’ needs
• Teach music theory, aural skills and practical techniques to students as needed to fully participate in lessons and ensembles.
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with a complete list of required materials
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with desired teaching days/rates.
• Provide the QCSO Director of Finance with logs of lessons taught according to pay date schedule for the purpose of payroll and invoicing to students.
• Motivate students and encourage progress
• Communicate with Director of Education and Community Engagement.
• Foster an environment within the teaching studio of constructive feedback and open communication with parents.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Music in Performance or Education is required. (Performance Diplomas also considered)
• Demonstrable knowledge of music curriculum and the ability to implement it
• Ability to interact collaboratively with students, parents, and administration
• Excellent oral and written skills
• Able to pass a local background check
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to thrive working in a team environment

Compensation

• Instructors will be classified as employees of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and will be paid on the 15^th and 30^th of each month via direct deposit.
• Instructors will set their own lesson length/dates/rates.
• The QCSO is solely responsible for collecting lesson fees.

Application Procedure:
Interested parties should submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your teaching philosophy to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org. No phone calls, please. Review of applications will begin immediately, and applications will be reviewed until PLP needs are met. Questions about the position can be directed to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is looking to hire experienced music teachers to establish private teaching studios within the Quad Cities in an effort to help us continue to grow our Private Lesson Program (PLP).

Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare lessons in relation to individual students’ needs
• Teach music theory, aural skills and practical techniques to students as needed to fully participate in lessons and ensembles.
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with a complete list of required materials
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with desired teaching days/rates.
• Provide the QCSO Director of Finance with logs of lessons taught according to pay date schedule for the purpose of payroll and invoicing to students.
• Motivate students and encourage progress
• Communicate with Director of Education and Community Engagement.
• Ensure up-to-date knowledge and awareness of honor band and orchestra audition requirements (IMEA, ILMEA, etc.)
• Foster an environment within the teaching studio of constructive feedback and open communication with parents.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Music in Performance or Education or required. (Performance Diplomas also considered)
• Demonstrable knowledge of music curriculum and the ability to implement it
• Ability to interact collaboratively with students, parents, and administration
• Excellent oral and written skills
• Able to pass a local background check
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to thrive working in a team environment

Compensation

• Instructors will be classified as employees of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and will be paid on the 15^th and 30^th of each month via direct deposit.
• Instructors will set their own lesson length/dates/rates.
• The QCSO is solely responsible for collecting lesson fees.

Application Procedure:
Interested parties should submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your teaching philosophy to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org. No phone calls, please. Review of applications will begin immediately, and applications will be reviewed until PLP needs are met. Questions about the position can be directed to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra is looking to hire experienced music teachers to establish private teaching studios within the Quad Cities in an effort to help us continue to grow our Private Lesson Program (PLP).

Responsibilities:

• Plan and prepare lessons in relation to individual students’ needs
• Teach music theory, aural skills and practical techniques to students as needed to fully participate in lessons and ensembles.
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with a complete list of required materials
• Provide the Director of Education and Community Engagement with desired teaching days/rates.
• Provide the QCSO Director of Finance with logs of lessons taught according to pay date schedule for the purpose of payroll and invoicing to students.
• Motivate students and encourage progress
• Communicate with Director of Education and Community Engagement.
• Ensure up-to-date knowledge and awareness of honor band and orchestra audition requirements (IMEA, ILMEA, etc.)
• Foster an environment within the teaching studio of constructive feedback and open communication with parents.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Music in Performance or Education or required. (Performance Diplomas also considered)
• Demonstrable knowledge of music curriculum and the ability to implement it
• Ability to interact collaboratively with students, parents, and administration
• Excellent oral and written skills
• Able to pass a local background check
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to thrive working in a team environment

Compensation

• Instructors will be classified as employees of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra and will be paid on the 15^th and 30^th of each month via direct deposit.
• Instructors will set their own lesson length/dates/rates.
• The QCSO is solely responsible for collecting lesson fees.

Application Procedure:
Interested parties should submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your teaching philosophy to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org. No phone calls, please. Review of applications will begin immediately, and applications will be reviewed until PLP needs are met. Questions about the position can be directed to Chelsea Sammons at csammons@qcso.org, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.