Conductor – Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra (Contract)

Conductor – Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra (Contract) Contract Term: January 2027 – May 2027 Location: Stratford, Ontario Rehearsals: Monday evenings, 7:00–8:30 PM The Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra (SSYO) is seeking an enthusiastic and skilled conductor to lead our orchestra beginning in January 2027. This is an exciting opportunity for an educator and musician who is passionate about inspiring young performers and fostering musical excellence in a supportive, community-focused environment. This appointment is for the Winter/Spring 2027 term, with the possibility of renewal for future seasons. About the Orchestra Now entering its sixth season, the Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra is a community youth orchestra of approximately 50 musicians between the ages of 8 and 18. Students represent a wide range of musical experience and ability and are supported by a team of professional sectional coaches. The successful candidate will help students develop strong ensemble skills, musical confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for orchestral music while working within a positive and collaborative learning environment. Position Responsibilities The successful candidate will: ● Conduct weekly orchestra rehearsals on Monday evenings from 7:00–8:30 PM. ● Prepare the orchestra for performances throughout the term.. ● Conduct the Spring Recital. ● Foster a positive, inclusive, and encouraging rehearsal environment. ● Develop ensemble musicianship appropriate for students of varying ages and experience levels. ● Collaborate with the Artistic Director and sectional coaches regarding artistic goals and student development. ● Work effectively with coaches, volunteers, and parents as needed. A typical term consists of approximately 13-15 services, including: ● One concert. ● Approximately 12 weekly rehearsals. ● Occasional additional performances, such as the Kiwanis Music Festival or community collaborations. The orchestra's repertoire will be selected in advance by the Artistic Director. Programming consists primarily of educational orchestral literature and arrangements rather than full symphonic works. Qualifications The ideal candidate will possess: ● Strong conducting and rehearsal leadership skills. ● Excellent musicianship. ● A passion for music education and mentoring young musicians. ● A belief that every student can continue to grow as a musician. ● Experience conducting youth orchestras, school ensembles, community orchestras, or similar ensembles. ● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. ● The ability to motivate students while maintaining an organized, engaging, and positive rehearsal atmosphere. Compensation Compensation is paid as a fixed semester contract ranging from $2,500 to $3,500 CAD, commensurate with the successful candidate's experience, qualifications, and travel requirements. This is not a union contract. The contract covers all scheduled services for the term, including weekly rehearsals, dress rehearsal(s), the Spring Recital, and any additional performances scheduled as part of the semester. Schedule ● Weekly rehearsals: Monday evenings, 7:00–8:30 PM ● Additional services include dress rehearsals and concerts. ● The Spring Recital will likely take place on a day other than Monday. All other regular services are scheduled for Monday evenings. Application Requirements Interested applicants should submit: ● A current résumé. ● A letter of intent describing your interest in conducting a youth orchestra and working with young musicians. ● A list of conducting engagements from the past several years. ● Contact information for three professional references. ● Conducting and/or teaching video recordings, if available. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will remain open until the position is filled. The Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra welcomes applications from conductors at various stages of their careers who are excited by the opportunity to inspire young musicians, build musical excellence, and contribute to a vibrant community arts organization. Please note: Successful applicants will be required to complete a Police Vulnerable Sector Check (or equivalent background screening) as a condition of working with SSYO. Background checks are renewed periodically in accordance with the organization's policies. Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging The Stratford Symphony Orchestra and Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra are committed to continually evolving our understanding and practice of equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism. We believe that a vibrant musical community is strengthened by the diverse identities, experiences, and perspectives of its members. We welcome applications from musicians and educators of all backgrounds and identities and strongly encourage artists who identify as First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black, People of Colour, disabled, and/or members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to apply. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all young musicians and artists feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow.

The conductor will lead weekly rehearsals and prepare the youth orchestra for performances, including the Spring Recital. They will also collaborate with the Artistic Director and sectional coaches to foster musical growth and a positive learning environment.

The ideal candidate possesses strong conducting and rehearsal leadership skills, along with a passion for music education and mentoring young musicians. Experience conducting youth or community ensembles is required, as is the ability to maintain an organized and engaging rehearsal atmosphere.

• CommunicationPreferred

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Conducting
• Music education
• Rehearsal leadership
• Musicianship
• Mentoring
• Communication
• Interpersonal skills
• Ensemble management
• Artistic direction
• Collaboration

• Education
• Art & Design
• Creative & Media

Minimum experience

2+ years

Apply by

Feb 8, 2027

Posting language

English

Working hours

2 hours per week

Seniority

Entry level

Application method

Direct apply is available