Position Summary

The Director of Education and Community Engagement leads the Delaware Symphony Orchestra’s efforts to inspire and connect with the community through dynamic education and outreach initiatives. Guided by the organization’s strategic vision, this role is responsible for the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs that deepen the DSO’s impact across Delaware and the region. As a key ambassador for the Symphony, the Director fosters meaningful partnerships with schools, community groups, and social service organizations, ensuring that the orchestra remains a vital and accessible cultural resource for all.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute institutionally aligned strategies for education and community engagement.
• Design and manage a diverse range of programs—including student concerts, in-school musician and ensemble visits, community partnerships, and collaborations with social service organizations—while ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints and the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Provide daily leadership and strategic direction for all community engagement and education initiatives.
• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board on matters related to education and community engagement, including facilitating discussions and presenting program goals and outcomes.
• Work closely with the Director of Development to identify and pursue funding opportunities. Lead grant research and proposal writing efforts in support of education and community initiatives, including documentation of measurable impact.
• Work closely with the Orchestra Personnel Manager to strategically assign DSO musicians for educational and community engagements, ensuring all deployments comply with the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Work closely with the Music Director on content and planning for education, family, and community concerts.
• Coordinate and manage production staff for all education, family, and community concerts.
• Coordinate with the Director of Marketing and Events to increase visibility and awareness of education and community programs.
• Represent the DSO at all education, family, and community events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree minimum, preferably in music education or an arts related field
• Minimum of five years of direct experience managing arts education or community engagement programs
• Significant experience in grant research and proposal writing, with a track record of success
• Outstanding writing, communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
• Proven leadership skills with experience supervising production of events
• Strong, efficient organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Experience working with school systems and community-based programs, including the ability to effectively collaborate with school administrators, teachers, and educational staff
• Ability to build and maintain partnerships with schools and culturally diverse communities throughout Delaware
• Familiarity with orchestral repertoire and experience working with professional musicians and guest artists
• Collaborative spirit with the ability to work efficiently across departments and engage a wide range of stakeholders
• Professional demeanor with the flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays
• Multilingual ability is a plus, but not required

Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

To Apply: Please submit* a cover letter and resume to:

J.C. Barker, Chief Executive Officer, Delaware Symphony Orchestra, 100 W. 10th Street, Suite 1003, Wilmington, DE 19801

jobs@delawaresymphony.org

*email submission is strongly preferred

About Delaware Symphony Orchestra

Entering its 120th season, The Delaware Symphony Orchestra (DSO) has a rich history dating back to the late 1880s. Founded by Alfred I. duPont as the Tankopanicum Music Club, the group evolved into the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra before finally adopting its current name in 1971. Under the notable leadership of Music Director Laureate, David Amado, the DSO has grown in stature and expanded its reach to audiences throughout the First State. Today, as Delaware's only professional orchestra, the DSO offers inspiring musical performances across the Delaware and Brandywine Valley region, fulfilling its mission of enriching lives through inspring musical performances.

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