Position Title: 2023-2024 Conducting Fellow
Position Overview:
The Chelsea Symphony is seeking a highly talented and dedicated individual for the position of One-Year Conducting Fellow. This position offers a unique opportunity for professional development, providing comprehensive support and mentorship in conducting while offering two conducting opportunities with the orchestra. The successful candidate will work closely with the music director, guest conductors, and the talented musicians of The Chelsea Symphony. This position is unpaid and requires active participation in at least four concert cycles throughout the year and may be extended for a second year at the discretion of the Artistic Directors and Board of The Chelsea Symphony.
Responsibilities:
- Conducting Opportunities: The One-Year Conducting Fellow will have the privilege of conducting two performances during the concert season:
- Fall Cycle: Opening Work (TBC) of 20 minutes or less
- Spring Cycle: Second-Half work of 20 minutes or more
- These will include rehearsals, score preparation, and collaboration with the musicians to deliver outstanding performances.
- Rehearsal Assistance: Assist the music director and guest conductors in rehearsals by providing support, conducting sections as required, and facilitating effective communication between the conductor and musicians for at least four (4) cycles with which you are involved.
- Participation in Concert Cycles: The One-Year Conducting Fellow will be an integral part of at least four concert cycles, attending all rehearsals and performances throughout the season. This includes sectional and full orchestra rehearsals, as well as dress rehearsals and concerts. Two of these cycles will coincide with conducting engagement, at least two others will involve performing with the ensemble as an instrumentalist and assisting with ensemble operations including set up, library, livestream, and strike.
- Collaborative Engagement: Foster a collaborative working relationship with the music director, guest conductors, and musicians of The Chelsea Symphony, actively contributing to a positive and productive rehearsal environment.
- Professional Development: Participate in mentorship sessions with the music director and guest conductors to enhance conducting skills, gain insights into artistic leadership, and receive constructive feedback for growth.
Qualifications:
- Education and experience: Previous instruction and experience conducting ensembles, preferably orchestras, is highly desirable. Demonstrated leadership and musical excellence will be given significant consideration.
- Musical Proficiency: Strong musicianship skills, including a deep understanding of orchestral repertoire, score reading ability, and the capacity to effectively communicate musical ideas to performers.
- Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling collaboration with musicians, conductors, and the administrative team of The Chelsea Symphony. The ability to work effectively as part of a team is essential.
- Commitment and Flexibility: Willingness to commit to the full one-year term, including active participation in all assigned rehearsals, concerts, and associated activities. The One-Year Conducting Fellow must be adaptable and open to working with guest conductors and embracing different artistic approaches.
- Professional Growth Mindset: A strong desire to grow as a conductor and engage in continuous learning. The One-Year Conducting Fellow should be receptive to feedback and committed to ongoing professional development.
EDI
The Chelsea Symphony is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of its operations. As an organization, we strongly believe that diverse perspectives and experiences enrich the artistic process and contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive musical community. Therefore, in line with our EDI goals, we particularly encourage applications from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our organization.
As part of the application process, candidates are invited to share how their unique background and experiences align with our commitment to EDI. The Chelsea Symphony welcomes applications from individuals who are traditionally underrepresented in the conducting field and seeks to provide an inclusive platform for emerging talents to flourish.
By actively fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to create an environment where all members of The Chelsea Symphony can thrive and contribute to the artistic excellence and cultural enrichment of our organization and community.
Terms of Engagement:
This is a one-year position for the Fall 2023 - Spring 2024 season. The position requires participation in four concert cycles during the year, as determined by The Chelsea Symphony's schedule. The fellowship may be extended for a subsequent year at the discretion of the Artistic Directors, Chelsea Symphony Board, and Executive Director.
Application Process:
To apply for the position of One-Year Conducting Fellow with The Chelsea Symphony, please submit the following documents:
- Cover letter highlighting your interest in the position and your conducting goals.
- Performance resume detailing your conducting experience, education, and relevant musical achievements.
- One link to a performance recording on your primary instrument of study. These may be solo or accompanied and must be recent (within the last 2 years strongly preferred).
- 2-4 links to recent conducting footage. At least one video must show rehearsal, and at least one must be a performance. All videos must be recent (within the last 2 years strongly preferred)
- Applications should be submitted via this online application link.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and may be asked to perform a final audition in person and submit letters of reference.
About the Chelsea Symphony
The Chelsea Symphony aims to democratize the concert experience and foster shared discovery through socially engaged programming, professional support for musicians, and an inclusive and accessible environment for all audiences. As a non-profit, self-governing orchestra, TCS provides performance opportunities for its musicians while operating on an affordable scale. Soloists, conductors, and featured composers are chosen from within the orchestra's ranks, earning this benefit through their participation. Administrative operations are also handled by members of the ensemble.
Founded in 2005 by young conductors Yaniv Segal and Miguel Campos Neto, The Chelsea Symphony has earned a reputation as one of the most innovative ensembles in the New York metropolitan area. Shortly after its inception, the orchestra was featured in WNYC's "Salute to the Arts" Initiative, and The New York Times praised the ensemble for its "earnest, vibrant" playing. The Chelsea Symphony has collaborated with notable artists such as Clay Aiken, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Tony Award winner Lillias White, Broadway composer Seth Rudetsky, the Irish Tenors, and fashion designer Malan Breton. The orchestra's annual holiday concert has featured guest celebrities Richard Kind, David Hyde Pierce, Ana Gasteyer, Charles Busch, Andrea Martin, Rachel Dratch, Mo Rocca, Victor Garber, BD Wong, Seth Rudetsky, and Annie Golden narrating Aaron Dai's The Night Before Christmas.