Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra Job Opening Announcement

Music Director

Job Brief:

The Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra seeks an experienced Music Director to lead its music education team. The Music Director is responsible for ensuring the organization’s artistic potential and educational service goals are realized. They are charged with the continued development of the Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra as the area's only tuition-free, non-audition based youth orchestra and will have the skills, experience, and drive to help lead the the implementation of its curricula and learning goals.

The Music Director is a passionate champion of the Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra’s vision. They will set the highest expectations for the delivery of accessible, student-centered and culturally responsive music education, and generate passion and commitment for the Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra among our audience and community. The Music  Director will be a leading voice for the organization and its music, actively engaging the organization in the life of the broader community.

Since 1999, the Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra (YYO) has provided students the opportunity to make music in an atmosphere of creation, motivation, cooperation, and friendship. YYO offers a variety of classes, which continue to grow and evolve with our community. In addition to the orchestra, classes currently include pre-orchestra classes for students at varying stages in their musical journey, a music exploration class for our youngest students and their parents, music theory and composition classes, a Jazz Ensemble, percussion classes, and a Mariachi class. YYO serves approximately 150 youth of diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic status. YYO strives to celebrate its unique local community, and actively works to close the gap in instrumental music education between Ypsilanti Community Schools and the surrounding area, offering tuition-free, non-audition-based, and responsive music education, while developing team-building and communication skills in a safe, supportive setting. Program site location: 510 Emerick Street, Ypsilanti, MI 48198.

Responsibilities: 

In their role, the Music Director will have the support of a dedicated and experienced Board of Directors, faculty, and staff.

The Board of Directors will look for the Music Director to:

  • Engage collaboratively with the YYO staff and faculty to ensure the artistic success of YYO and help build the organization as a vital music education resource in the community.

  • Serve as a passionate artistic and educational leader of the YYO.

  • Lead recruitment and retention efforts. 

  • Serve as the chief conductor of the orchestra, delivering exceptional concerts with interpretive skills that communicate the emotional content of the orchestral repertoire.

  • Develop compelling, imaginative programs that grow the YYO and engage the community, exploring a diversity of styles and genres with the goal of creating deeper and relevant connections between our music, our audiences, and the community at large.

  • Generate artistic projects that raise the stature of the YYO locally and beyond.

  • Inspire greater and deeper levels of involvement throughout the community. Convey passion on and off the podium that inspires increased participation for children locally.

DESIRED PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

  • An established reputation as an music educator and meaningful experience working with children in music.

  • Demonstrated experience in a leadership position.

  • An expert knowledge of K-12 orchestral/ band repertoire.

  • Experience working with and developing a large orchestra and/or band ensemble.

  • Expertise in ensemble technique, diverse instruments, and music pedagogy.

DESIRED PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

  • A natural preference for collaboration, and comfort with children and families of different backgrounds.

  • The ability to communicate persuasively with diverse audiences both on and off the stage.

  • The ability to help build a strong vision for the future of YYO.

COMMITMENTS

  • Rehearse the ensemble at its regular Saturday morning rehearsals (typically 28-30 hours per academic year) and conduct all performances (two per academic year) during the September to May season.

  • Determine season repertoire and advise teachers and members of the structure of pre-orchestra classes and curricula in tandem with the Programs and Curriculum Committee.

  • Maintain effective communication with YYO members, parents, faculty, mentors, and staff.

  • Develop compelling, imaginative programs that grow the YYO and engage the community, exploring a diversity of styles, genres, and traditions with the goal of creating deeper and relevant connections between our music, our audiences, and the community at large.

  • Be passionate about elevating the musicianship of children of all ages who comprise the YYO.

Compensation:

$10,000 Annually

HOW TO APPLY

For best consideration, please send nominations and applications in confidence to:

Kasia Bielak-Hoops, Board Chair | kasia@ypsiyouthorch.org

Applications should include PDF formats of a statement of interest and professional resume; and at least one teaching and/or conducting demonstration video (please provide viewing access or password). References will be requested later.

Deadline for submission: April 30, 2025.

YYO is an Equal Opportunity Employer, non-profit, 501(c)(3) that offers tuition-free music education and performance opportunities to children ages 4-18.