Apply to be the next Chorus Director with FBSO&C
The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Chorus is looking for a dynamic and engaging Chorus Director. The season consists of 2-3 concerts with the orchestra and one stand-alone concert each season. This role is not just prepping the chorus for orchestral concerts; Music Director Dominique Royem is dedicated to podium sharing, so there will be conducting opportunities in front of the combined orchestra and chorus as programming allows. The conductor will be expected to become part of the Artistic Staff, with the responsibilities listed below.
The audition will consist of an interview and time in front of the Chorus. Auditions will be held on Tuesday, July 14th. Please email conductor@fbso.org with your CV, a cover letter detailing your experience with choruses, and how you will help the Fort Bend community, along with Conducting Samples, with the camera facing the conductor. Digital conducting samples only (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.) and up to 20 min total for all excerpts. Applications will close on Sunday, June 7th, at 11:59 pm. Houston Metro applications only.
Artistic Performance Responsibilities
Prepare the chorus for the FBSO concerts by determining the number and type of rehearsals, attending those rehearsals, and attending the dress rehearsals with the orchestra as determined by the Music Director. FBSOC rehearses on Tuesday nights, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm at FUMC Missouri City.
Choose music for FBSO concerts for the Chorus within the parameters set by the Music Director.
For standalone concerts, select concert dates, concert themes, and a partial list of works to be performed, and determine the number and type of rehearsals. The FBSO Chorus Director shall work with the FBSO Music Director in the selection of the above, and all choices are subject to the Music Director and board approval. Submit these to the Board for approval at least six (6) months prior to the beginning of each season.
Conduct (or make arrangements for a substitute conductor) all regularly scheduled rehearsals and performances as agreed upon by contract.
Develop the overall artistic quality of the FBSO Chorus
Determine the appropriate stage setup and determine rehearsal and call times on standalone concert days. Work with the FBSO Music Director on call times and setup for concerts with FBSO. All decisions are subject to FBSO Music Director approval.
Select appropriate singer attire for concerts.
Write program liner notes or designate an appropriate substitute.
Create and deliver pre-concert talks of approximately 15 minutes to engage and interest the community.
Engage in recruitment efforts to build the quantity and quality of Chorus members.
Artistic Administrative Responsibilities
Work cooperatively with the Board and the FBSO Music Director to develop concert programming that is appealing to performing members as well as the public.
Work cooperatively with the Board and the FBSO Music Director to develop long-range artistic plans for the Chorus.
Within the terms of the working agreement with the musicians, and in cooperation with the Board and the FBSO Music Director, select and approve playing personnel: attend auditions, hire musicians, dismiss musicians, select principal players, and determine seating within each section.
Select guest artists and performers, ensuring that local artists are considered.
Become a visible and active part of the community and represent the FBSO Chorus at various civic functions and organizations when appropriate and possible, including official functions.
Assist in the general promotion of the FBSO Chorus by being available for public appearances for ticket campaigns, fund drives, etc.
Develop a strong working relationship with community music educators and other community arts organizations to support and enrich performing arts opportunities within our community, including collaborative efforts with other arts organizations.
Strengthen the voluntary culture of FBSO Chorus by working with Board members and the FBSO Music Director, direct-service volunteers, and other volunteer committees on special projects designed to help the FBSO Chorus.
Develop the overall public image of FBSO Chorus in the community and beyond.