Musical Director

The Opportunity We are looking for a Musical Director to join our team of energetic theatre-loving educators building community one show at a time. We're a tight knit group that prioritizes belonging , engagement, and the kind of permission to play that makes great teaching possible. You'll nurture future generations through theatre, help students find their voices, and rarely have two days that look alike. Who We Are All About Theatre is a Santa Cruz County theatre company with a mission to strengthen our county's creative spirit and distinct sense of place by empowering young people and sustaining a vibrant community of artists and audiences. We strive to be organized, supportive, and collaborative in our work together. Who You Are You're passionate about young people and theatre, and you bring four things to work every day: a positive attitude , a helpful instinct, genuine curiosity , and accountability for your part of the show. You like working on a team where everyone holds the same bar. More Details About The Job Overview The Musical Director (MD) provides artistic, musical, and educational leadership for the production. This role balances high artistic standards with a supportive, age-appropriate teaching approach . The MD collaborates closely with the Artistic Director, Production Staff, and Technical Team to realize the musical vision of the show while upholding All About Theatre's values of inclusion, education, and artistic integrity. Your success is measured firstly in how well students, parents, staff, and volunteers feel uplifted and supported . The final performances - hopefully the show is great too. Artistic Leadership You are an artistic leader. We look to you for vision and for organization. Collaborate with the Director and Choreographer to establish and maintain the musical vision of the production Study the full score and libretto in advance , identifying opportunities for musical storytelling and development Select, edit, and prepare audition materials that assess vocal range, tone, style, and musicianship Provide vocal and musical input during casting , considering vocal quality, character fit, and ensemble balance Adapt vocal arrangements and harmonies to suit young performers while preserving the integrity of the score, including finding opportunities to feature performers Music Education Your priority is to foster a joy and passion for music among your students. Promote musicality , ensemble awareness, and expressive performance skills Lead consistent, age-appropriate vocal warm-ups that promote vocal health and technique Teach all musical material , including solos, ensemble numbers, harmonies, reprises, and underscoring Develop vocal skills , emphasizing pitch accuracy, rhythm, diction, breath support, and expression Provide individualized coaching to support performers needing additional guidance or confidence Reinforce musical storytelling , phrasing, and emotional connection to lyrics Rehearsal Leadership Make sure the music aspect of the production is organized and runs smoothly . Prepare and manage a music rehearsal plan and schedule in coordination with the production team Attend and lead all music rehearsals to teach, review, and polish musical numbers Accompany rehearsals or coordinate accompaniment , using a pianist or rehearsal tracks Conduct musical run-throughs and cue entrances , including underscoring during rehearsals and tech Cultural Leadership You are a leader and a cultural ambassador . You create a positive rehearsal environment where students feel safe, supported, and excited . Foster an inclusive, encouraging rehearsal environment where all students feel valued and supported Model professionalism and preparedness , including punctuality and teamwork Use age-appropriate teaching strategies to build confidence and understanding Recognize diverse learning styles and backgrounds within the cast Celebrate student progress and promote ensemble collaboration Collaborate with families, stage management, and teaching artists to support performer growth Performance Oversight Serve as conductor (if needed), keyboardist, during performances, as needed Support the transition from rehearsal tracks to performance accompaniment (live or recorded) Attend all technical rehearsals to refine cueing, balance, synchronization, and transitions If using a live orchestra Recruit and hire musicians in coordination with the Artistic Director Lead sitzprobe and orchestra rehearsals Conduct the orchestra during performances , managing tempos, cues, and pit-cast communication If using performance tracks Annotate the script with detailed music cues (e.g., song start/stop points, transitions, vamps, cue lines) Collaborate with the Sound Designer and Audio Technician to ensure accurate playback and cue execution Admin & Communication Duties We need you to own the details that ensure everyone has what they need. Maintain proactive communication with the Artistic Director and production team Provide regular updates on musical readiness and flag challenges early Track vocal readiness and make recommendations for microphones, doubling, or ensemble support Communicate professionally with accompanists, musicians, staff, and families as needed Supervise Assistant Musical Directors/Vocal Coaches, interns, or accompanists assigned to the production Complete written audition feedback reports within two weeks of casting Required Knowledge & Experience Mastery of music theory Experience musically directing musical theatre productions Experience working with youth Experience with Google Workspace Additional Experience (Bonus Points) A degree in some relevant aspect of music theory A degree in some aspect of youth education

Pay:

$20.00 - $35.00 per hour Application Question(s): Looking at the list of "required knowledge & experience" and the "additional experience", are there any elements that you feel like you are extra solid on? What elements would you want some training and support on? What age group do you most enjoy working with? Do you have any musical, theatrical or teaching credentials / education?

Experience:

Educating Youth:

2 years (Required)

Music Direction:

2 years (Required)

Location:

Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person