Local Video Game Orchestra Seeks Music Director

Rockville MD

Description

Opportunity: The Washington Metropolitan Gamer Symphony Orchestra (WMGSO), the premiere community ensemble exclusively devoted to performing video game music in the D.C. area, seeks a Music Director to lead the ensemble to new musical heights. The Music Director serves as a volunteer and is not an employee of the WMGSO; however, they shall be permitted to receive reasonable reimbursement or allowance for expenses incurred. An annual stipend of $1,000.00 is available (payable in installments). The Music Director will report directly to the Board, and is granted the power of decision about matters pertaining to the artistic and musical direction and presentation of the orchestra. The Music Director will collaborate with the Choir Director on repertoire, rehearsal plans, and other duties pertaining to the musicality of the ensemble. The position will start with a one-year contract, which will be followed by a review. Depending on the results of the review, the contract will be eligible for renewal for a three-year term. Applications will be accepted through February 28, 2022, or until the position is filled. About WMGSO: The Washington Metropolitan Gamer Symphony Orchestra (WMGSO) is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt community orchestra and choir whose mission is to share video game music by putting on affordable, accessible concerts in the D.C. area. To learn more about WMGSO, please visit https://wmgso.org or https://linktr.ee/wmgso. Position Overview: Beyond the expected musical expertise, the Music Director must have strong communication and organizational skills and be able to work collaboratively with the rest of Music Leadership, performing members, and the Board. Knowledge of video game music is a plus but is not required, so long as the applicant is willing to put forth the effort to understand the context and impact of the source material. Qualifications and Experience: -2-5 years of experience conducting and coaching any size of ensemble, from soloists and chamber music to the full joint orchestra and choir for rehearsals and concerts. -A BA/BM/BS in Music/Performance/Music Education and 1-2 years of conducting experience or a MA/MM/MS degree in Music/Performance/Music Education/Conducting may be substituted for the above. -Able to conduct and rehearse a wide range of musical genres. -Broad knowledge and understanding of orchestral instruments, and basic knowledge of non-traditional orchestral instruments (e.g., electric guitar, drumset, synthesizer). -Proficiency in at least one instrument. -Ability to recognize, diagnose, and correct musical, interpretive, rhythmic, balance, and intonation problems in all orchestra sections and address them efficiently and appropriately. -Ability to conduct rehearsal in an efficient and engaging manner. -Adherence to fairness, sensitivity, and discretion in all matters pertaining to orchestra personnel such as auditions, terminations, and seating, etc. -The judgment, imagination, and practical sense to create (along with the Library team) balanced programs of significance to the ensemble, the occasion, and the community. Desired Competencies and Skills: -Ability to teach members appropriate performance styles in a wide range of genres. -Functional piano keyboard skills. -Practical experience in music composition. -Functional knowledge of and respect for the orchestra's administrative/business operation, including governance, fundraising, and marketing/public relations. Job Location: Rockville, Md. (rehearsals) and D.C. area (concerts). Apply via: https://wmgso.org/get-involved/open-positions