REPORTS TO: Head of Programming

POSITION SUMMARY: The Manager of Artistic Planning is responsible for managing and executing the detailed implementation of artistic plans for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra's concert seasons, supporting operational execution of concert planning, guest artists contracting and relations, and budget administration. This position directly supervises the Artist Liaison, and works closely with the orchestra library and titled conductors (Music Director, Assistant Conductor, Director of Chorus, and IN UNISON Chorus Director). A key collaborator, the Manager of Artistic Planning is the primary point of contact between the Artistic Operations Department and all other departments ensuring seamless execution of programing details while fostering strong internal and external artistic relationships.

This is an opportunity to create a lasting impact during one of the most thrilling times in the history of the orchestra, as we welcome the public to beautifully renovated Powell Hall.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

      Programming Implementation & Execution:

• Collaborate closely with the Head of Programming to implement the artistic vision for all SLSO concerts and programs.
• Manage the detailed planning and execution of the classical subscription series, non-subscription programming, chamber music series (including the Pulitzer and Sheldon series), holiday programs (such as Mercy Holiday, IN UNISON Christmas), special concerts (including Forest Park, LEV), and other initiatives as guided by the Head of Programming.
• Organize, finalize and distribute all artistic planning information to staff and orchestra musicians, and other stakeholders.
• Communicate appropriate artist contract information internally, responding to inquiries about programming, artist scheduling, and engagement.

         Artist & Conductor Engagement & Relations:

• Engage cover conductors and pre-concert lecturers for all subscription concerts.
• Under the guidance of the Head of Programming, interact with agents and managers to ascertain artist availability and negotiate agreements for guest artists, conductors, and composers.
• Administer performance contracts in collaboration with the Artist Liaison.
• Oversee functions and related activities of Artistic Liaison, ensuring excellent artist servicing in coordination with Productions/Operations teams, and provide artist services directly as needed.
• Manage composer communications, score submissions, and commissioning agreements, supporting the Head of Programming’s commissioning portfolio development.

         Internal & External Collaboration & Communication:

• Provide accurate artistic planning information for marketing, public relations, and philanthropic purposes, including proofing printed materials and press communications.
• Distribute and ensure completion of Conductor Questionnaires, disseminating information internally.
• Collaborate with the Education and Community Department to facilitate artistic planning for education, family, and Youth Orchestra concerts as needed.
• In collaboration with Youth Orchestra Manager, oversee the conducting schedule of Resident Conductor and Music Director of the St. Louis Youth Symphony.
• Participate in Artistic Administration department meetings and represent the artistic department at Production meetings.

         Budget & Administration:

• Assist the Head of Programming in developing and keeping track of the artistic budget.
  
  
• Prepare, maintain, and track budgets for specifically assigned artistic programs and projects, providing budget accurate and current forecasts for financial reporting.   
• Oversee contract administration and expense tracking for areas of responsibility.

         Concert & Event Support:

• Manage surtitles for concerts, as required.
• Serve as Arts Vision system administrator, facilitating appropriate user access, and ensuring that artistic planning data is accurately and completely entered, including titles of works, composers, pronunciations, rehearsal orders, and other information, in collaboration with music librarians.
• Participate in artistic and concert duty rotations, which may include artist hospitality, attending artistic dinners, leading post-concert subscriber meet-and-greets, providing artistic feedback to production team and conductors for amplified presentations, and other support as needed.
• Support guest artist appearances for institutional goals in philanthropy, marketing, learning, and community engagement.

REQUIREMENTS:  

-Passion for and deep knowledge of symphonic music, artists, and the orchestra industry.

-Enthusiasm for and interest in a broad array of musical styles, genres, and repertoire.

-Extensive knowledge of orchestral, opera, and chamber repertoire.  Ability to read music.  An advanced degree in music performance or music history is desirable.

-3+ years of progressive artistic planning and programming experience in an orchestra, opera company, or music festival setting preferred, with a proven track record of successful program execution and project management.

-Proven negotiation and contract administration skills.

-Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

-Ability to multitask, prioritize, organize details, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

-A team-oriented, inclusive, consistently positive, collaborative, professional demeanor and demonstrated leadership skills.  

-A refined sense of attention to detail and organization.

-Well-developed critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and strategic planning support skills.

-Reputation for high ethical standards and sensitivity working with confidential information.

-A commitment to maintaining positive working relationships with a wide variety of constituents, including staff, orchestra musicians, guest artists, artist managers, and volunteers.

-Ability to work days, evening, weekends and irregular hours as required.

-Technological proficiency is a must, including Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to quickly learn and utilize new software applications; experience with Arts Vision (or similar orchestral planning software) is highly preferred.

-Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and a good driving record.

About St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

Celebrated as one of today’s most exciting and enduring orchestras, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is the second-oldest orchestra in the country, marking its 144th year with the 2023/2024 season and its fifth with Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director. Widely considered one of the leading American orchestras, the Grammy® Award-winning SLSO maintains its commitment to artistic excellence, educational impact, and community collaborations—all in service to its mission of enriching lives through the power of music.  The core of the SLSO’s artistic foundation is its dynamic partnership with Denève, whose energetic musicianship, visionary storytelling, and collaborative spirit have created stronger connections with local and visiting artists, as well as advanced the SLSO’s role as a leader in music education. The SLSO musical family also includes two resident choruses: the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, founded in 1976, performs choral-orchestral music from the Baroque era to today; and the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus, founded in 1994, focuses on the performance and preservation of music from the African diaspora. The St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchest...ra, founded by Conductor Laureate Leonard Slatkin in 1970, is the region’s premiere training orchestra for high school and college students. In March 2023, the SLSO broke ground on a 65,000-square foot expansion and renovation of the orchestra’s home, Powell Hall—the first major renovation project at the historic Grand Center building since it became the SLSO's permanent home in 1968. Led by the internationally acclaimed architecture firm Snøhetta, the project will transform the audience and artistic experience while protecting Powell Hall's historic character and celebrated acoustics, creating a state-of-the art center for community, innovation, and powerful music experiences. While construction is underway, the SLSO will perform throughout the community. The revitalized Powell Hall will open in 2025 to coincide with the building's centennial. An integral part of the vibrant St. Louis community, the SLSO enjoys a long history of robust and enduring artistic collaborations with individuals and organizations locally and around the world. Orchestra musicians share dozens of education and community performances throughout the region each year at medical facilities, places of worship, community centers, and schools. For 20 years, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra: Live at the Pulitzer?series has highlighted today’s leading musical voices through innovative performances in collaboration with, and reaction to the exhibitions at, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. The SLSO has served as the resident orchestra for Opera Theatre of Saint Louis for more than 45 years. The orchestra also continues to foster new artistic collaborations, including a chamber music collaboration with The Sheldon in 2023/2024, as well as regular partnerships with The Muny, The Big Muddy Dance Company, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and others. Beyond the St. Louis region, the SLSO's impact is realized through Saturday night concert broadcasts on St. Louis Public Radio and Classic 107.3, acclaimed recordings, regular touring activity, and a digital portfolio that includes a robust online education platform with curriculum materials, interactive programs, activities, and learning opportunities for all ages. Since the arrival of Marie-Hélène Bernard as President and CEO in 2015, the SLSO has aligned its mission to make music more accessible, while fostering a culture welcoming to all. Building on its momentum, the SLSO serves as a convener of individuals, creators, and ideas, and is committed to building community through compelling and inclusive musical experiences. As it continues its longstanding focus on equity, diversity, inclusion, and access, the SLSO embraces its strengths as a responsive, nimble organization, while investing in partnerships locally and elevating its presence globally. For more information, visit slso.org. 

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Connections working at St. Louis Symphony Orchestra