Assistant Conductor, Marena & Roger Gault Chair

Dallas Symphony Association Inc•Dallas, TX

About The Position

The Assistant Conductor plays an artistic role supporting the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s performance and programming needs throughout the season. The position conducts approximately 15 concerts annually, including Youth Concerts, Parks Concerts, DSO on the Go, special engagements, and, if needed, select subscription concerts. The Assistant Conductor attends Classical Subscription rehearsals and weeks to support the Music Director and Guest Conductors with orchestral balance, ensemble coordination, artistic input, and other considerations, and must be prepared to conduct assigned rehearsals or performances when needed. The role also supports musical administration and program development, presents pre-concert talks before every Classical Concert, assists the Music Director with music scheduled for rehearsal, performance, and recording, and provides artistic feedback to the media team. The Assistant Conductor coordinates performance selections with guest conductors and artists for media releases, represents the orchestra at public and private events, and contributes to the orchestra’s community, regional, and national relationships. Approved orchestra tours may include national and international travel.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Conducting, Music, or a related field.
Demonstrated orchestral conducting experience and knowledge of orchestral repertoire, rehearsal techniques, and performance practices.
Strong artistic judgment and ability to provide constructive feedback and collaborate effectively with the Music Director, Guest Conductors, musicians, and staff.
Excellent communication and presentation skills, including ability to deliver engaging pre-concert talks, speak effectively from stage, and represent the orchestra at public and community events.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple artistic and administrative responsibilities.
Ability to support concert programming, media initiatives, and promotional activities.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and varying schedules across performance venues, rehearsals, concerts, and approved orchestra tours.

Responsibilities

Assist the Music Director and Artistic and Operations staff with musical administration and development, including advising the library on music editions; planning New Year’s Eve, Youth, DSO on the Go, and Parks concert programs; reviewing orchestra scheduling; auditioning prospective guest artists as needed; and performing related duties.
Attend all Classical Subscription rehearsals and provide artistic input and feedback to the Music Director and Guest Conductors throughout rehearsals and performance series as cover conductor.
Be prepared to conduct assigned rehearsals or performances as a substitute when necessary.
Conduct assigned concerts across any orchestra program, venue, or date.
Host and present pre-concert talks before every Classical Concert throughout the season.
Assist the Music Director with matters related to music scheduled for rehearsal, performance, and recording during conducting periods in Dallas and, with the Music Director’s approval, on national and international orchestra tours.
Provide artistic feedback to the media team and coordinate performance selections for media releases with guest conductors and artists.
Represent the orchestra at public and private events and social functions; deliver speeches and remarks; create social media promotional videos; and support community, regional, and national relationships through other reasonable activities.