Job Opening: Music Director
About Grace Chorale of Brooklyn
Grace Chorale of Brooklyn is a thriving community chorus with over 125 members and a nearly 50-year history of choral excellence. We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Music Director to lead our ensemble into its next chapter, building on our strong tradition of musical excellence and community engagement. Jason Asbury, our current Music Director, announced in January that he is stepping down after 14 years in the role. "From commissioning new works and partnering with numerous Brooklyn arts organizations to navigating a pandemic and expanding the vision for what the Chorale could achieve, I am deeply proud of everything we have accomplished together," said Asbury.
The Chorale is dedicated to promoting and cultivating the art of choral singing in Brooklyn through performing a wide variety of choral music, collaborating with other Brooklyn arts organizations and engaging in educational outreach. Furthermore, the Chorale is committed to building a diverse and inclusive choral community and champions works by historically underrepresented composers, and we are particularly proud of our commissioning program, which supports living composers and places our chorus in a unique position within the choral community.
We are excited to find a leader who will continue to elevate the artistic vision of Grace Chorale of Brooklyn and foster a thriving, inclusive choral community!
Responsibilities:
Artistic Leadership: Plan and conduct engaging and dynamic choral performances that reflect a diverse and ambitious repertoire.
Rehearsal Direction: Lead weekly rehearsals (Wednesdays, 7:00–9:00 PM) with energy, clarity, and musicianship, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for singers of all experience levels.
Concert Programming & Preparation: Select repertoire that aligns with the mission of the Chorale, hire guest artists and instrumental ensembles, and oversee the preparation of scores, rehearsal materials, and performance logistics.
Community Engagement: Act as the public face of Grace Chorale, collaborating with local arts organizations, developing outreach initiatives, and enhancing the Chorale’s presence in the Brooklyn community.
Mentorship & Collaboration: Work closely with the Assistant Music Director, accompanist, and leadership team to ensure effective rehearsals and sectional training.
Administrative Collaboration: Partner with the Board of Directors on budget planning, concert logistics, fundraising efforts, and strategic initiatives.
Auditions & Membership Development: Conduct auditions as needed, assess and support vocal development, and help cultivate a strong and dedicated choral membership.
Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience conducting choirs, preferably community or volunteer ensembles.
Strong musicianship, vocal pedagogy skills, and knowledge of choral literature across genres and styles.
A commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive rehearsal environment.
Experience working with orchestras, composers, and guest artists.
Excellent communication and leadership skills.
Enthusiasm for engaging with the broader Brooklyn arts community.
Proficiency in score preparation, rehearsal planning, and concert production
Terms of Employment:
The position follows a seasonal schedule from September to late May, with breaks during the winter holiday season.
Rehearsals take place weekly on Wednesday evenings (7:00–9:00 PM) in Brooklyn.
Concert Schedule: Typically two performances of the same concert in December and two performances in April or May, plus occasional guest performances.
The Music Director is expected to be present for all rehearsals, performances, and additional programming as agreed upon.
Compensation: $19,000-22,000
How To Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
A music resume/CV detailing conducting experience, education, and relevant qualifications.
A brief cover letter explaining their interest in the role and vision for the Chorale.
Links to video samples of conducting rehearsals and/or live performances.
Please send application materials to apply@gracechorale.org by March 31, 2025
Selection Process
Applications due by March 31.
Initial Zoom interviews conducted on a rolling basis through April 15.
Finalists will be invited for an in-person audition and interview, including a rehearsal with the Chorale.
A final decision will be made by June 15.
Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy
Grace Chorale of Brooklyn does not discriminate in its membership policies, employment decisions, or programs on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law.