A Music Director leads music ensembles in a variety of different settings. Conducts orchestras or choral groups, church choirs, or pit orchestras in a music theatre production. Chooses music for performances, or composes or arranges music for ensembles to perform; runs rehearsals and directs soloists or guest performers.
The Department of Music at Mount Holyoke College seeks an Assistant to the Director of Choral Activities (DCA) to support the artistic, educational, and administrative operations of the College's choral program. This position offers an exceptional professional development opportunity for an emerging choral conductor, educator, or performer. While the position is not benefits-eligible, the successful candidate may study voice, piano, and/or conducting privately, audit music history and theory courses, and participate in Music Department ensembles at no cost. Working closely with the DCA, the Assistant will provide musical leadership in rehearsals and performances, support student learning, coordinate ensemble operations, and contribute to the successful execution of concerts, special events, and collaborative projects.
Essential Responsibilities:
Assist with rehearsals, sectionals, and performances for the College's choral ensembles. Lead vocal warm-ups and sectional rehearsals; conduct selected repertoire as assigned. Participate as a singing member of the Glee Club and support the choral program's artistic goals. Provide individual and small-group coaching in repertoire preparation, music literacy, and vocal development. Manage physical and digital choral music libraries, including training and supervising student librarians. Coordinate ensemble operations, including attendance, concert programs, rehearsal materials, and digital resources. Assist with planning and executing concerts, tours, special events, and off-campus activities. Collaborate with campus partners and support choral initiatives across the College and Five Colleges community.
Qualifications:
Required Significant choral ensemble singing experience. Collegiate-level study of conducting. Functional piano skills for learning, rehearsing, and teaching vocal parts. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and written communication skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate effectively. Preferred Bachelor's degree in Music or equivalent training and experience. Experience conducting choral ensembles and working with college-age singers. Familiarity with music library management and ensemble administration. Additional conducting study through a recognized collegiate music program.
Hourly rate:
$20
Full Job Description Background Checks:
Mount Holyoke College is committed to providing a safe and secure environment, supported by qualified employees that will allow all of its students, faculty, staff and those associated with them to successfully carry out the mission of the college. As a condition of employment, the College will conduct appropriate background checks for all new hires. Mount Holyoke has designated the Office of Human Resources as the office responsible for ensuring that background checks (CORI, SORI, Credit History, & Driver Credential) are completed and utilized in the hiring process and Five College Office of Compliance and Risk Management as the office responsible for facilitating background checks as articulated in this policy. Special Instructions for
Applicants:
Apply online; application materials must include: A cover letter summarizing interests and qualifications A complete resume or curriculum vitae For faculty positions, statements on mentoring, teaching, and research will also be required. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment.
