Director, University Chamber Orchestra

About the Department

For nearly 90 years, the University of Chicago Department of Music has been a leader in the academic study and creation of serious music. The department offers graduate degrees in Composition, Ethnomusicology, Music History, and Music Theory, as well as an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree in Music. It also hosts a co‑curricular Performance Program that includes many ensembles and provides musicians with performance opportunities.

The University Chamber Orchestra (UChO) Director provides artistic leadership and instruction for student, faculty/staff, and community musicians. The role involves programming, rehearsing, and performing, as well as recruitment, coaching, and coordination with other department staff.

• Plan 2 or more well‑balanced concert programs each quarter, appropriate to the ensemble’s abilities.
• Train and rehearse the UChO and the cast/chore selected by the Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Company for the annual G&S production.
• Lead all weekly rehearsals (Monday 7:00–9:30p.m.) and all public performances of the ensemble.
• Provide instructional materials, specific assignments, and individual coaching sessions to student musicians.
• Assess and document students’ progress; submit grades (Pass/Fail) to the Registrar each quarter.
• Recruit additional musicians, assist with auditions, and coordinate substitutes as needed.
• Prepare concert materials (sheet music, seating charts, parts assignments) and return used music to the library.
• Collaborate with other Music Department ensembles or community groups for joint projects.
• Solicit guest artists or concerto competition winners as budget allows.
• Maintain the ensemble’s operating budget and submit necessary requests to Program staff.
• Schedule and reserve rehearsal and performance spaces with the Performance Program staff.
• Respond to e‑mail and communicate regularly with the Director of Performance Programs and other staff.
• Attend staff meetings, planning meetings, and other related events.
• Perform other related duties as requested.

• College or university degree in a related field.
• 2–5 years of work experience in a related discipline.

• Master’s degree in musical performance from an accredited conservatory.
• Formal training in orchestral conducting.
• Experience as an ensemble conductor, assistant conductor, or cover conductor at the community orchestra level, another educational institution, or in a professional setting.
• Training and experience conducting opera, operetta, or musical theatre.
• Familiarity working with solo and choral singers as well as with orchestral musicians.
• Broad knowledge of chamber orchestra repertoire from the Western canon.
• Knowledge of effective pedagogical approaches for post‑high‑school orchestral musicians.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills; dependable and accountable.

Part‑time, non‑benefits eligible position requiring approximately 16 hours per week. Regular weekly commitment to on‑campus teaching and coaching during three nine‑week quarters, October through May. Monday evening rehearsals (7:00‑9:30p.m.) strongly preferred. Availability for a heavier schedule during the winter quarter.

$1,500–$1,700 per month.

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover letter stating your interest in the position (required)
• At least two recent conducting videos released within the last 2years, one rehearsal and one performance (required)

The University of Chicago is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class under law.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check. The University’s Annual Security & Fire Safety Report can be accessed online.