Festival Season Assistant Conductor

Position Description

The Assistant Conductor at Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL) serves as a vital member of the artistic team, supporting the Principal Conductor, guest conductors, and Head of Music. This role involves preparing for and stepping in to conduct rehearsals or performances as needed, coaching artists, liaising between conductors and the music staff, cast, and production team, and assisting in the preparation of artists in cover roles and special programming. The ideal candidate will possess strong conducting technique, musicianship, leadership, and interpersonal skills and have a passion for operatic and classical repertoire.

Frequent night and weekend hours will be required.

Duties & Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct rehearsals and/or performances in place of the project conductor as needed and directed by management.
• Attend all assigned orchestra, technical, dress rehearsals, and performances, providing musical support as needed.
• Assist production conductors during all rehearsals, supporting them by taking musical notes, listening for balance, communicating with artists and stage management, and liaising with OTSL’s Principal Conductor and Head of Music.
• Coach artists engaged by the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis as requested by OTSL’s artistic leadership and/or the Head of Music
• Assist in rehearsing principal and young artists covers in their assignments.
• Assist in musical preparation for the Center Stage Concert with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. At the request and discretion of OTSL’s Principal Conductor, this may also include the opportunity to conduct a selection(s) from the program.
• Assist in musically preparing artists for community and special events as requested.

Skills, Experience, Qualifications

• 5-10 years of classical music experience preferred.
• A minimum of 2 years conducting experience in large ensembles, preferably in opera.
• Proficiency in reading and preparing full scores and parts for rehearsal and performances as needed.
• Ability to communicate effectively and clearly.
• Ability to run a rehearsal effectively and efficiently.
• Ability to anticipate the needs of others and provide leadership support.
• Experience in vocal coaching preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure and maintain professional demeanor.
• Ability to work nights and weekends.
• Ability to take and give feedback in a constructive manner.

Compensation

• This is a seasonal, full-time position.
• Engagement dates: Monday, April 27, 2025 – Saturday, June 28, 2025
• Compensation Range: $1,000.00-$1,100.00 / week
• Travel and housing provided.
• Note: OTSL’s Festival Season is a 6-day work week.

To Apply

Applicants for the position are asked to submit a resume along with a cover letter that describes their interest in the position and outlines their relevant experience and qualifications.

About Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL) is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization known for innovative productions featuring outstanding young artists. The company offers a festival opera season each spring which attracts ticket buyers from zip codes throughout the metropolitan area, as well as visitors from nearly 50 states and multiple countries. As of 2024, OTSL has presented 41 world premieres, which may be the highest percentage of new work in the repertory of any American company. In addition to the spring Festival Season, OTSL operates year-round education and community programs serving nearly 17,000 local children and adults.

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis has a year-round artistic and administrative staff of approximately 45, which grows to more than 500 during the Festival Season. Several hundred volunteer members of the Opera Theatre Guild provide support for all aspects of Opera Theatre’s work and advocate for the company throughout the greater St. Louis community. The company’s annual budget size is approximately $12 million; contributed revenue represents more than 50% of budget.

At Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, we value equity, diversity, and mutual respect. We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, people with disabilities, and others who have been historically excluded to apply. Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our community. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

OTSL will not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of race, color, religion or belief; national, social, or ethnic origin; age; sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression; physical, mental, or sensory disability; family or parental status; genetic information or characteristics; protected veteran status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. OTSL will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

If you need assistance or accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please contact (314) 963-4233 or [email protected].