About MOSY
The Missouri Symphony (MOSY) began when Hugo and Lucy Vianello founded the organization in 1970. At its inception, the mission of the organization was to provide symphonic music and music education to the mid-Missouri area. Although the organization has evolved over the last 50 years, this mission continues to be at the core of MOSY and its three branches, the Orchestra, the Conservatory, and the League.
The Missouri Symphony Conservatory (MSC) is the educational branch of MOSY, serving students grade 2-12. The Conservatory offers supplemental music education for students interested in pursuing music at an in-depth level, including large ensembles, chamber music, and a musical skills and knowledge course. The three large ensembles include the Missouri Youth Symphony (grades 9-12, all instruments), the Missouri Junior Youth Symphony (grades 6-9, all instruments), and the Missouri Youth Orchestra (grades 2-6, strings only). The Conservatory also offers special opportunities to students every year, including masterclasses with guest artists and the opportunity to play with the Missouri Symphony Orchestra as part of our Conservatory Apprenticeship Program (CAP).
About Columbia
Columbia is a bustling and energetic city in the heart of Missouri that is home to three colleges, including Columbia College, Stephens College, the University of Missouri (MU), the largest university in the state. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, with two notable international festivals held every year: the True/False Film Festival and the Roots and Blues Music Festival. In addition, the downtown has a devoted arts district that houses many local visual artists who host a First Friday gallery walk every month with new art exhibits. The MU School of Music also shares a strong and developing partnership with MOSY that continues to develop.
The Position
The Missouri Symphony seeks an energetic and experienced educator and conductor to serve as the Music Director for the Missouri Symphony Conservatory and the conductor of the Missouri Youth Symphony (August-May). The Music Director will provide the artistic direction for the MSC and will work with staff to manage all programs and events. The individual will also conduct the Missouri Symphony Orchestra’s annual Young People’s Concert every November. The MSC seeks someone who is inspiring, creative, and passionate about working with young musicians at all levels.
This person will work closely with the Executive Director and Director of Education and Outreach, who serves as the administrator of the Conservatory, as well as other Conservatory staff to create, organize, and execute various educational and performance opportunities for students. In addition, this person will work with the Director of Development, and the Director of Marketing and Events on various educational, fundraising, and public relations efforts.
This position does not require residency in Columbia.
Expectations and Duties
Director: Missouri Symphony Conservatory MSC)
• Audition students for the Conservatory biannually
• Aide in the assigning of students to chamber ensembles
• Audition students for the Conservatory Apprenticeship Program
• Work with the Director of Education and Outreach to communicate with conservatory families about expectations, rehearsal schedules, etc.
• Create and maintain relationships with other arts education nonprofits, music educators, and schools in the mid-Missouri area
• Work with Conservatory staff to recruit and retain students
Conductor: Missouri Youth Symphony (MYS)
• Prepare and conduct weekly rehearsals for the Missouri Youth Symphony on Sunday (2-5 PM) during the school year
• Conduct two concerts with the MYS, one in December and one in May
• Conduct concerts at supporting organizations, such as our annual concert at Lenoir Woods Senior Living
• Select appropriate repertoire
• Select appropriate excerpts for biannual MYS auditions
Conductor: Young People’s Concert (YPC)
• Work with the Director of Education and Outreach to create an integrated and exciting program for third graders
• Rehearse and conduct the Missouri Symphony Orchestra
Administration*
• Adhere to Board-approved budget
• Regular meetings with the Director of Education and Outreach
• Meet with other staff as needed
• Work with the Director of Development and Marketing to advocate, fundraise, and build donor relationships for the MSC
• Attend Board meetings as requested
• Assist with fundraising and stewardship as needed
• Serve as spokesperson for MOSY as needed
*These duties may be conducted virtually
Qualifications/Skill Required
• Bachelor’s and advanced degree in Music required; degree in Music Education preferred
• Must have experience working with young musicians and conducting youth ensembles
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people
• Ability to inspire and energize students and audiences
• Ability to collaborate with others
Compensation
• Job Type: independent contractor
• Annual Pay: $20,000
• Benefits: Tickets for all MOSY events
Non-Discrimination Statement
The Missouri Symphony (MOSY) does not advocate, support, or practice discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income, political beliefs, military status, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or childbirth. This applies to employment, programs, and activities.
Required Materials
• Please send a letter of interest, full resume, and private YouTube links to videos conducting performances of three works of varying styles and one 30-minute rehearsal
• Submit electronic materials to: Trent Rash, Executive Director, at trent@themosy.org
Additional Information
• For additional questions, please email or call Dr. Ashley Pribyl, the Director of Education and Outreach, at education@themosy.org or 573-607-5903
