Music Director

Prior experience as a Music Director or in a comparable artistic leadership role is strongly preferred. • Curate and deliver exceptional performance experiences across diverse musical genres and concert settings, ensuring the highest standards of artistic excellence • Take primary responsibility for overseeing the artistic direction and ongoing development of the orchestra, ensuring alignment with the organization’s vision and goals • Plan the overall concert season in partnership with the CEO and Director of Artistic Operations, including but not limited to major concert series, education concerts, chamber ensemble series, special events, etc. • Select repertoire to be performed in partnership with the CEO and Director of Artistic Operations; solicit input and collaborate with HSO musicians, staff, Board representatives, community partners, and others as appropriate • Utilize interpretive skills that enable communication of the emotional content of a wide range of music, producing relevant, interesting and compelling performances • Work with artistic operations to determine stage set-up to maximize acoustic and artistic performance • Oversee musician personnel decisions including participation in auditions, musician hiring and performance evaluations; communicate artistic expectations clearly and address performance concerns through established processes to uphold the orchestra’s artistic standards • Employ effective baton technique, command of physical gestures and effective verbal communication that clearly and concisely convey musical vision and interpretation • Assess musicians’ individual strengths and weaknesses, build relationships based on respect and trust, create a collaborative environment and inspire orchestra musicians and guest artists to work towards common goals, giving their best • Select soloists and guest conductors with discernment, ensuring alignment with the HSO’s artistic vision and programming goals; the ability to leverage a strong professional network to attract high-caliber talent is highly valued. • Engage and inspire audiences of all ages through compelling musical interpretation and effective verbal communication, both on and off stage • Explore new directions in music-making, new audience development and creative development of HSO musicians and staff • Research and prepare presentations that serve to elevate audience knowledge, music appreciation and concert experiences • Serve as a key partner in shaping the HSO’s long-term strategic vision, contributing to the development and execution of comprehensive plans that advance the organization’s mission and sustainability • Support fundraising and promotional endeavors by sustaining and enhancing relationships with donors and institutional partners • Effectively collaborate with the staff, Board and Orchestra Committee as part of a management team; maintain prompt and regular communication including commitments outside the HSO • Foster an environment of openness and collaboration, valuing diverse perspectives and inspiring creativity within the organization • Actively champion education and youth programs, regardless of level of direct involvement • Adhere to the artistic planning schedule outlined in the Music Director contract and operate effectively within established budgetary limits • Possess a strong understanding of contract negotiations and the nuances of personnel relations; ability to work within the parameters of collective bargaining agreements • Participate in the HSO’s annual performance review process, including completion of a self-assessment and 360 feedback • Participate in Board of Directors and various HSO committee meetings as appropriate • A minimum of eight years of professional orchestra conducting experience, previous orchestral Music Director or equivalent roles are a plus • Demonstrated commitment to developing imaginative programming ideas that have significance to the orchestra, special occasions, evolving trends, and local communities • Experience using multimedia technology in the creation and performance of innovative new works and experiences is a plus • Demonstrated commitment to community engagement based on shared goals, organizational alliances and personal dedication • Comprehensive knowledge of the history of music and its relationship to the broader context of the history of civilization, visual arts, literature, drama and popular culture • An inquiring mind that searches for the best information and research about performance practices, repertoire and artists • Significant study of at least one instrument and experience actively making music within an ensemble, preferably orchestral • Confidence and integrity to make difficult decisions and remain true to course • Self-awareness of personal strengths and areas for growth within the scope of Music Director responsibilities, demonstrated in part by actively seeking opportunities for professional development • A strong understanding of the HSO as a nonprofit organization, with a deep appreciation for the roles of the Board, staff, musicians, and volunteers in advancing the orchestra’s mission