Sadly, David Torres will be leaving us at the end of our Spring 2024 Season. With his PhD from UCSB securely in hand, he is entering a new phase of his life and career.
You can help us find our new director by spreading the word. Please feel free to download and distribute our job description.
Music Director Duties
- Prepare the Chorale for 2 major programs per year, one in December, another in May. In addition, prep for the few small performances requested by the Santa Ynez Valley community. These may include songs for the Winter Holidays at local Elder Care centers or churches, as well as patriotic standards for Solvang’s annual Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Veterans Day programs, for example.
- Direct a two-hour rehearsal each week during both concert seasons (currently 7:00-9:00 pm Monday evenings – subject to change) starting in September for the mid-December concert, and resuming in mid-January for an early May concert.
- Schedule and direct additional rehearsals close to performance dates as needed to achieve nuanced, artistic performances.
- Select a program repertoire for concerts that takes into consideration factors such as budget, ensemble size, abilities, availability of scores, musicians, soloists, and venues.
- Determine the order of musical pieces for concert programs and other performances. Arrange musical scores for the chorale and/or orchestra, or secure arrangements as necessary.
- Engage professional musicians as needed for specific programs, select soloists, and conduct all related instrumental and choral rehearsals and performances.
- Assist in recruitment and retention of singers. Responsible for acceptance of any new members in consultation with section leaders. Identify member developmental needs, and coach improvement through appropriate avenues, such as additional part rehearsals or referral to a vocal coach.
- Serve on the Chorale Board of Directors and attend monthly meetings (remotely or in person). Maintain open communication and actively contribute to all concerns as needed, play a visible and active role in promoting the Chorale, and advise in fundraising.
- In consultation with the board, develop creative and long range musical objectives. Identify strategies and action steps to achieve goals.
- Provide additional services as agreed from time to time with Chorale’s Board of Directors or appropriate officers.
Qualifications
- Experience teaching and conducting adult choral ensembles
- Experience conducting an orchestra or instrumental ensembles
- Advanced studies in choral conducting: Masters in Choral Conducting or equivalent professional experience (Doctor of Music Arts preferred)
- Solid understanding of both choral and vocal pedagogy
- Thorough comprehension of repertoire from traditional western canon, as well as world music and contemporary choral music.
- Ability to teach and inspire singers from diverse backgrounds
- Good communication skills
- Patience and sense of humor
- Experience arranging/composing sheet music for orchestra accompaniment is a Major Plus
MUSIC DIRECTOR SELECTION PROCESS
Email the following to RGLane@mac.com:
Cover Letter
CV or Resume – CV is preferred, or Resume should include a list of accomplishments.
List of pieces conducted in performance and/or rehearsals
Three references
If possible, links to video or audio of conducting rehearsals and/or performances
Strong applicants will be invited to interview and demonstrate rehearsal skills with a group of Chorale members. The search committee will make its recommendations to the Board, which will make the final selection.
Additional questions may be directed to Richard Lane at (850) 570-0923