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Lavender Light Artistic Director Job Description
General Description

The Artistic Director (AD) of Lavender Light, The Black and People of All Colors Lesbian Gay Gospel Choir (LL), serves in a visible leadership position within the organization and works in partnership with the Officers of the choir. The AD reports to a designated co-chair in all aspects of day-to-day operations and execution of an artistic vision for LL. The officers of the choir are responsible for performance review and evaluation of the AD no less than once a year.

The AD is expected to provide leadership and guidance for LL, build the moral of its members; maintain a professional, positive, friendly, and productive attitude at all times; engage the choir with humanity, empathy, and humor; maintain high standards and expectations, and respect the voluntary culture and the traditions of the organization.

Requirements
  • An interest in, and commitment to, the mission of LL.
  • Proven success as a conductor of choruses.
  • Experience working with, and motivating, volunteer organizations.
  • Excellent command of vocal/choral production and performance techniques.
  • Extensive knowledge of choral literature, especially black gospel music both traditional and contemporary.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of vocal education techniques and the ability to work with singers of varying ability.
  • Ability to read, write, and transpose music.
  • Able to work with singers both "by ear" and with musical notation.
  • Demonstrated expertise in the conceptualization and staging of performances.
  • Academic credentials in a music field or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
Duties
Artistic
  • Work collaboratively with the Officers to create and implement short- and long-term artistic goals and vision for LL.
  • Develop collaborations with other choruses, organizations, and artists.
  • Develop performance repertoire for each LL season (fall and spring) incorporating new material and selections from the choir’s past repertoire.
  • Oversee (select and supervise) all artistic personnel, both paid and volunteer.
  • Prepare and conduct all LL rehearsals and performances (rehearsals are Monday nights from 6:45 - 9:30 p.m. except the month of August).
  • Prepare, coordinate and schedule concert performances.
  • Supervise separate rehearsals with the band/accompanist as needed.
  • Work to improve musicianship, technical proficiency, and performance capability of members.
  • Conduct open auditions for new members at least twice a year - and actively participate in recruitment.
  • Work with the Officers toward professional recording opportunities.
Production
  • Work within production confines imposed by resources at-hand.
  • Participate in all aspects of productions including venue selection, PR, and logistics.
Administrative, Financial, and Human Resources
  • Handle all obligations to the choir in a responsible manner.
  • Demonstrate excellent and timely communication skills.
  • Maintain an open and cooperative dialogue with the Officers through regular meetings - to review, plan, and schedule all choir activities, events and concerts and to discuss any concerns, issues, goals, or opportunities that may arise.
  • Work with the officers in creating an annual operating budget.
  • Help lead a yearly weekend retreat for all choir personnel.
Community and Public Relations
  • Recommend performing and community outreach opportunities.
  • Serve as a representative to the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) and other appropriate professional and/or community groups and attend meetings, workshops and conferences, upon approval of the Officers.
  • Submit program notes and song lists for each concert program.
  • Allow name and likeness to appear in all promotional materials (print/digital).
Fundraising
  • Participate in choir fundraising events as required and availability permits.
  • Work with the officers to identify, cultivate, and solicit major individual, corporate, and foundation gifts.

View application guidelines.