CHORUS DIRECTOR (MILPITAS, CA)
Bay Area Showcase Chorus (BASC), a chapter of Sweet Adelines International (SAI), is an award-winning a cappella chorus comprising around 50 women of all ages, vocal ranges, and musical backgrounds. Our music varies from traditional barbershop to contemporary songs, all arranged in close 4-part harmony. Learn more at singharmony.org.
To apply, please fill out the job application here. If you have any questions, you can contact us at directorsearch@singharmony.org.
Part-time (10 - 15 hours per week). Compensation negotiable.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Chorus Director is responsible for the overall musical product. They provide the artistic and musical vision, leadership, and inspiration, as well as the technical and teaching skills to continue to advance BASC’s artistic excellence. They agree to abide by Sweet Adelines International, Regional, and Chapter Bylaws, plus Regional and Chapter Standing Rules.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Exercise final authority for all decisions pertaining to rehearsals, performances, shows, and competition, delegating responsibility when appropriate.
- Appoint a Music Team consisting of section leaders, Assistant Directors, visual communication leaders, and other support staff.
- Plan and conduct weekly Thursday evening chorus rehearsals (2.5 hours) and any additional rehearsals, including all-day rehearsals, according to the chorus's goals and calendar. Rehearsals include teaching the selected music, and providing a variety of activities and education in vocal skills, music education, and barbershop style performing. For scheduled vacations and emergencies, the Director will make arrangements for an Assistant Director or Music Team member to conduct the rehearsal.
- Prepare and direct all musical aspects of chorus performances and shows, working with appointed chorus members on the non-musical performance aspects. Make arrangements for an Assistant Director to fill in if necessary.
- Prepare and lead the chorus in Regional and International competitions.
- Work collaboratively with the Music Team in the selection of music and arrangements to be performed.
- Oversee the purchase and tracking of sheet music and licenses.
- Purchase or prepare learning tracks for all music.
- Serve as the Musical Coordinator on the Management Team, participating in team meetings and management of chorus business, including budgets, goals, policies, procedures, team building, calendaring, and membership recruitment.
- Plan and conduct extra rehearsals, including selecting and scheduling outside coaches, as needed, to boost skills and prepare for competitions.
- Provide education/training to existing and new members in singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style.
- Provide input to and guidance in all aspects of visual communication, including choreography, characterization, staging, costumes, and hair and make-up.
- Decide on riser standing positions.
- Ensure the quality of chorus, smaller group performances, and quartets through appropriate performance qualification processes.
- Promote quartet development and approve performance readiness.
- Work collaboratively with the Music Team to determine the audition process.
- Attend SAI and Regional training sessions for music directors.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven and demonstrated technical musical skills.
- Barbershop style skills, or the willingness to become trained in the barbershop style.
- Willingness to pursue further development of musical and directing skills by attending training classes/seminars.
- SAI Director Certification or willingness to attain SAI Director Certification within 12 months.
- Strong teaching, rehearsal, and delivery skills.
- Strong leadership and communication skills—both verbal and written.
- Ability to create an environment that encourages self-improvement and participation.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills.
- Basic computer skills.
- High level of enthusiasm and energy.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Formal musical training
- Barbershop musical training.
- Experience directing a chorus.
- Desire to attain SAI Master Director level.
- Experience with music recording technology.
