Musical Directors

Northern Virginia Performing Arts (NOVAPA) is seeking experienced and collaborative Musical Directors for youth musical-theatre productions at our Leesburg, Virginia location.

The Musical Director will teach the production’s vocal material, support healthy and age-appropriate singing, and collaborate with the Director and Choreographer to prepare students for a polished theatrical performance.

Responsibilities:

• Teach vocal music, harmonies, rhythms, diction, dynamics, and musical interpretation.
• Prepare and lead organized music rehearsals.
• Collaborate with the Director, Choreographer, Production Manager, Technical Director, and other production-team members.
• Assess vocal ranges and capabilities during auditions or the early rehearsal process.
• Make appropriate vocal-part assignments in coordination with the Director.
• Adapt or redistribute vocal material when necessary and properly authorized.
• Teach healthy vocal practices appropriate for children and teenagers.
• Prepare rehearsal tracks, vocal materials, or practice resources when required.
• Track musical progress and identify material needing additional rehearsal.
• Coordinate with accompanists, musicians, sound staff, and microphone personnel.
• Attend production meetings, sitzprobe, technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances as required.
• Communicate attendance, preparedness, vocal-health, behavioral, or scheduling concerns to the appropriate NOVAPA administrator.
• Maintain professional boundaries and comply with NOVAPA’s child-safety and professional-conduct policies.
• Refrain from making unauthorized promises concerning casting, solos, refunds, schedules, or policy exceptions.

Qualifications:

• Experience as a musical director, vocal director, accompanist, music educator, or vocal coach.
• Strong piano skills are strongly preferred. Applicants should indicate their level of piano proficiency.
• Ability to read and teach standard musical notation and vocal scores.
• Knowledge of musical-theatre vocal styles and healthy vocal technique.
• Experience working with children and/or teenagers.
• Strong rehearsal-management, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to collaborate while meeting individual deadlines and responsibilities.
• Degree or formal training in music, musical theatre, music education, or a related field is preferred but not required when supported by significant experience.
• Evening and weekend availability is required. Must have reliable transportation.

All selected candidates must complete NOVAPA’s background-screening process, child-safety training, and required onboarding before beginning work.

Production:
Sweeney Todd, Hadestown, Frozen, Little Mermaid, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory, Mean Girls, How to Train Your Dragon, Trolls

• Three professional references-including last 2 supervisors
• Description of piano proficiency
• Relevant performance recordings, production credits, or portfolio materials
• General evening and weekend availability