Are you passionate about orchestral and choral music? Do you enjoy a vibrant, fast-paced environment? Is the idea of working directly with extraordinary artists and conductors exciting? Do you thrive on detailed schedules, organization, and logistics? Do you get excited thinking about working directly with one of the best choral programs in the region? Join a highly accomplished team in a city dedicated to growing arts and culture in the role of Artistic Assistant at the Richmond Symphony. Noted by CNN as the number one place to visit, Richmond is also a great place to live! According to CNN, “Richmond is No. 1 on the list thanks to rich arts, culture and history, plus a great food and beverage scene.”

The Richmond Symphony and Richmond Symphony Chorus have built a reputation for outstanding musical productions with top-notch artistry. The Symphony has purposely worked to reimagine the music experience for ways to connect more deeply with the Richmond community, and to bring the power of music to participants of all ages through dynamic performances, refined rehearsals, and collaboration with artists that more deeply connect with our audiences and partners. 

What exactly would I do?

As the Artistic Assistant, you will be responsible for providing scheduling and logistical support to the Music Director, guest artist, soloists and conductors. You will manage the many facets of the Richmond Symphony Chorus, from communications to rehearsals. You will embody the Symphony’s values of Quality, Inclusion, Passion, Innovation, and Welcoming.

Your days may be spent communicating with visiting artists or related management, building travel schedules and itineraries, driving an artist to the airport, managing artist hospitality, or ensuring contracts are followed and payments are accurate and on-time. You may be working alongside the Music Director ensuring her itineraries are complete, and communicating with Symphony departments for needs or requests of her time and energy during visits. You will find yourself coordinating the Music Director’s travel, housing, and transportation needs when in Richmond. You may be working with the VP of Artistic Planning & Operations to finalize contract details or submit Visa requests for guest artists and conductors.

Each week you will participate in Chorus rehearsals, building schedules, communicating with the Chorus Director, and ensuring rehearsal pianist schedules and rosters are in order for the season’s needs. You will build working and artistic relationships with Chorus members through regular communication, clear correspondence, and social engagements that build on cultural values and align with organizational strategy. You will oversee the Chorus Committee and communication paths between that group and artistic leadership.

What qualifications and skills do I need?

A working knowledge of orchestral and choral repertoire and standard practices are key. Ability to lift 10-20 lbs. and complete minor physical work of setup and teardown is needed, as well as a valid drivers’ license and relatively clean driving record. An agile multi-tasker, with significant organizational and time management skills will succeed in this role.  Strong written and verbal communication skills combined with the ability to interface with a wide variety of people is highly anticipated. A history of anticipating needs before they are expressed would be a plus. Composure under pressure and the ability to foster positive relationships with musicians is vital. A commitment to reaching a diverse array of constituents, to contributing as part of a strong team, to continual learning, and to effective communication and even more effective listening is key to success.

What’s the compensation and benefits?

This is a full-time position with an annual salary of $32,000, plus overtime. Benefits include health, dental, telemedicine, vision, disability and instrument insurances, a flexible spending or health savings account, flexible paid time off, sick leave, free parking, and a 403(b) plan. While some remote work is possible, this position requires significant in-person participation at evening and weekend events, concerts and community events.

How do I apply?

All applications and communication are done online. Simply follow this link, click on the apply button at the top of this page, create an account, and you will be guided through the process. Please have your resume, cover letter and two professional references ready to upload. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Any offer of employment is contingent upon a background check.

The Richmond Symphony is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Symphony embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills.