Symphony Program Conductor for Youth Symphony II

Reports To: Director of Orchestral Activities

Supervises: Students, Coaches, and Concert Parents

Department: Music

About Hawaii Youth Symphony (HYS):

Children who make music embody commitment, discipline, teamwork and persistence; all proven to be vital to success in school and to joy in life.

Each year, HYS serves more than 700 children statewide and produces and presents more than 40 orchestra, jazz, and ensemble concerts per season. Incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1964, HYS has nearly 5,000 alumni and has introduced over 100,000 children to the joys of orchestral music.

Vision: We envision a Hawaii where Music Is A Right.

Mission: To foster fun and creative experiences for youth that inspire a deep appreciation for music and lifelong relationships within the culture of our islands. Core Values: Inspire, Have Fun, Dream Courageously, Grow Together!

Position Summary

The Symphony Conductor will lead the artistic development of Youth Symphony II, the intermediate orchestra of the Symphony Program within Hawaii Youth Symphony. Currently, HYS Symphony Program engages over 270 students ages 10-18. This role requires fostering positive relationships with orchestra members, parents, and administrative staff while adhering to the policies and objectives set by the Board of Directors. The conductor will facilitate rehearsals and performances primarily on weekends and play a vital role in creating an inclusive and supportive musical environment. The person in this position will be expected to work nights and weekends.

Essential Duties

• Teach intermediate to advanced instrumental ensemble techniques and fundamental musical skills (notation, reading, rhythm, interpretation, expression, etc.).
• Lead & conduct orchestra at rehearsals and performances.
• Strategize with the Director of Orchestral Activities to develop long-range artistic and educational plans, including repertoire selection, and student and coach recruitment.
• Collaborate with the Director of Orchestral Activities, regarding all aspects of the audition process: selection of music, adjudication, and placement.
• Select students for principal/leadership positions.
• Coordinate materials to be covered in workshops and sectionals with the respective coaches.
• Ensure that all bowings and markings are clear and consistent.
• Nurture and maintain communication with Hawaii instrumental music teachers.
• Maintain clear and professional communication with orchestra members, parents, and administrative staff regarding schedules, attendance, expectations, and policies.
• Stay informed about suitable repertoire for youth orchestras and promote effective utilization of all players.
• Assist in the general promotion of HYS by being available for public appearances, and by participating in public relations or social media campaigns.
• Attend meetings as requested, including season-opening parent/family meeting, Symphony Program team meeting, staff meetings, and other meetings, as assigned.
• Collaborate with other HYS faculty and programs with a goal of creating a cohesive, inclusive, connected environment within which students at all levels can learn, perform, and grow together.
• Meet annually with the Director of Orchestral Activities for a performance review.

Secondary Duties

• Track student attendance and notify HYS staff of problem areas.
• Participate in professional development as assigned.
• Other duties or meetings as assigned.

Personal Characteristics

Symphony Conductors should be enthusiastic and possess the high energy level necessary for working effectively with intermediate and advanced students. The passionate conductor will not shy away from opportunities to act as an ambassador for HYS and music education. This person should also be adept and comfortable showing patience, calm, and empathy for the difficulties and challenges inherent in learning an instrument or playing in an orchestra.

Musical Requirements

• Proven success as a conductor and music teacher with at least five years of experience in the field
• Extensive knowledge of orchestral literature at all levels
• Know the standard repertoire from an interpretive aspect
• Have intimate knowledge of the technical and musical problems the players will encounter in specific pieces
• Have knowledge of arrangements and transcriptions that are available for younger orchestras
• Perform or have performed at a high level on an orchestral instrument

In addition to the characteristics above, the ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience conducting large youth ensembles, and a minimum of a Bachelor of Music or Bachelor of Music Education degree.

To Apply

There are two parts to the application process:

1. Cover Letter, CV, and References - Due December 31, 2024

Select "Apply" button. Follow the prompts to enter contact information for three references and upload your cover letter and CV. 

2. Conducting Sample - Due January 10, 2025

Follow the instructions below and email the video link to search@hiyouthsymphony.org. 
The rehearsal video should be between 15-20 minutes in length. Please adhere to the following guidelines:

• Video must be unedited
• Rehearsal must showcase an instrumental ensemble (no vocal ensembles); wind/brass only or string only is acceptable, however, full orchestral rehearsal is preferable.
• Ensemble should have a minimum of twenty (20) players
• Conductor must be audible and visible in the video; it is not necessary for the players to be visible.
• Video should showcase conducting ability, rehearsal techniques, and communication style. Video should include spoken feedback to the ensemble; videos featuring only run throughs of material are discouraged.
• Video should be submitted via an unlisted YouTube link.
• Please note, this does not need to be a professional recording: the focus will be on the quality of the content presented, not the production quality.