Empire State Youth Orchestra is seeking an experienced area high school choral music teacher to audition, select, and rehearse the Melodies of Christmas Chorale in preparation for four performances of Melodies of Christmas and subsequent TV broadcasts conducted by ESYO’s Music Director, Etienne Abelin. Melodies of Christmas is CBS6’s annual benefit for the pediatric oncology program at Albany Medical Center. The Chorale Director collaborates with ESYO’s Music Director and CBS6’s production staff. Weekly rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings, with performances in December. For a complete calendar please refer to the Melodies of Christmas Chorale Schedule, at the end of this description.

Duties & Expectations: The Chorale Director will:

• Help suggest challenging and engaging holiday repertoire in collaboration with ESYO’s Music Director & CBS6.
• Coordinate the audition process with support from ESYO’s operations staff.
• Participate in the August repertoire planning meeting with ESYO’s Music Director & CBS6.
• Recommend a rehearsal accompanist.
• Support ESYO’s recruitment efforts by leveraging colleague network to help publicize auditions.
• Meet with ESYO’s Music Director ahead of and during the rehearsal process to coordinate musical interpretations.
• Rehearse the Chorale in the October, November and December rehearsals in cooperation with ESYO’s Music Director.
• Optional: Conduct the Chorale in an a-cappella piece during the Melodies of Christmas performances.

The Ideal Candidate Will Possess:

• Proven experience and expertise in directing high school chorale and large scale productions.
• Exceptional ability to collaborate effectively with a production team.
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with young musicians and inspire dedication and enthusiasm.

The Hiring Process:

• Search committee will arrange to observe a candidate’s rehearsal and/or concert in May/June.
• Interviews will take place in late May/early June.
• Position will begin August 1, 2023.