Artistic Director – Kids Harmony Degrees, Inc.

18 Degreesis where new beginnings come to light for children and families – join us on our journey into a new day! At 18 Degrees, we cultivate teams and leaders to embrace the principles of diversity, equity and inclusiveness to support the needs of our community.

The Artistic Director is a unique position that combines the best of music instruction and pedagogy; with a passion for helping students and families through a social justice lens. In this role you will use your management skills to provide programmatic and budget oversight and staff supervision while collaborating in shared decision making with Senior Leadership and program staff to ensure alignment with the mission and vision of 18 Degrees.

We seek a strong leader, who is proactive and believes in the power of music as a catalyst for social change. This El Sistema-inspired music program is on-site at two elementary schools, Pittsfield and North Adams. This position supports musical and social-emotional skill development of students, coordinates the needs of families, provides staff leadership, supports all aspects of program oversight, administration, and program development.

The right candidate must have strong public speaking skills and the ability to connect with others across a variety of domains, from professional musicians, students and families to donors and the community.

• Maintaining a positive, structured learning environment that engages and inspires students.
• Coordinating student concerts and performances opportunities that benefit student growth and expand opportunities.
• Committing to serving diverse student populations with a focus on musical excellence, student well‑being and family support.
• Engaging with donors & supporters, including school personnel, promoting the value of the program and the mission of the agency.
• Serving as a key player on the Annual Kids 4 Harmony Gala Committee.
• Managing program staff, volunteers, and interns; and participating in agency meetings, projects and events.
• Overseeing program development and community partnerships, as well as regional, national, and international opportunities.
• Identifying and pursuing musical opportunities for students and supporting families.
• Complying with grant objectives, organize data to tell the program’s story effectively and manage all aspects of finances and budget.
• Sustaining a strong knowledge of standard music pedagogy; excellent musicianship and demonstrated skills as a music educator/performer; experience leading and conducting ensembles.

Applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Position start date will ideally be July 1st, 2026. Bachelors required;
Masters preferred. Multicultural/multilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Send cover letter and resume to Paula McDermott, 18 Degrees, 480 West Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201 or email pmcdermott@18 degreesma.org. Visit our website egreesma.org. AA/EOE