Job Opportunity: Associate Music Director – CHIME & Chamber Music

Organization: Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO)
Location: Schenectady, NY (In-Person with Flexible Scheduling)
Reports To: Music Director
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: $63,000–$73,000 annually, commensurate with experience

Benefits: Health Insurance, 403b matching program
Start Date: Summer 2025 (flexible)

Position Overview

The Associate Music Director for CHIME & Chamber Music is a core artistic and educational leader at ESYO, responsible for overseeing the musical excellence and pedagogical alignment of both CHIME (Creating Harmony Inspiring Musical Empowerment), a Sistema-inspired program, and ESYO’s Chamber Music Program. This full-time role combines conducting, teaching, curriculum planning, and mentorship of Teaching Artists, and plays a key role in advancing ESYO’s mission of artistic equity and access. The ideal candidate is an inspiring and inclusive conductor-educator, deeply committed to community-based music learning, chamber music excellence, and student-centered artistic growth. **Applicants must be willing to reside in New York’s Capital Region to foster strong relationships with students, families, and the wider arts community.

Key Responsibilities

CHIME Artistic Leadership (Approx. 60%)

• Serve as the artistic lead across all CHIME sites, ensuring high-quality ensemble experiences and developmental progression
• Collaborate with the CHIME Director on instructional design, ensemble placement, and performance planning
• Conduct full CHIME orchestras and support sectional instruction as needed
• In partnership with the CHIME Director, supervise and mentor Teaching Artists and site conductors in pedagogy, repertoire, and student engagement strategies
• Oversee artistic planning for CHIME concerts, showcases, and community collaborations
• Support the musical and social-emotional development of CHIME students from diverse backgrounds

Chamber Music Program Leadership (Approx. 30%)

• Direct ESYO’s Chamber Music Program, including student placements, coaching assignments, and scheduling
• Curate appropriate, engaging chamber repertoire for a range of ability levels
• Coach student chamber groups (as needed) and provide mentorship to chamber coaches
• Plan and conduct public performances and outreach concerts

Organizational & Cross-Program Collaboration (Approx. 10%)

• Contribute to long-range artistic and program planning in collaboration with the Music Director and Executive Director
• Participate in organization-wide performances, retreats, and community engagement events
• Plan and lead performance classes for various instrument groups
• Provide artistic leadership for ESYO’s summer program
• Serve as a key thought partner in developing pathways from CHIME to ESYO’s larger ensemble ecosystem
• Coordinate student participation in regional master classes, festivals, and enrichment opportunities with professional partners and visiting artists

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years experience conducting and teaching youth in orchestral and/or community settings
• Deep understanding of youth development, instrumental pedagogy, and ensemble leadership
• Experience working in diverse communities and using inclusive, culturally responsive practice
• Strong organizational, communication, and team leadership skills
• Passion for chamber music and the role of small ensemble playing in musical growth
• Commitment to equitable access to music education

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in music education, conducting, or performance
• Experience with El Sistema or similar community-based music programs
• Ability to arrange and adapt music for multi-level youth ensembles

About ESYO & The Region

ESYO empowers young musicians through high-level ensemble training, community-based programming, and transformative performances. Each season, ESYO serves more than 500 youth through 13 ensembles and CHIME. ESYO is committed to advancing access, equity, and artistic excellence in youth music education.At ESYO, music is more than performance—it’s a tool for connection, transformation, and youth empowerment. Located in New York’s Capital Region, ESYO is part of a thriving arts community, home to professional orchestras, vibrant music and arts organizations, and abundant performance opportunities. The area offers an affordable cost of living, a welcoming and engaged arts audience, and easy access to major cultural centers like New York City, Boston, and Montreal. Living in the Capital Region means joining a rich musical ecosystem and a supportive community committed to artistic growth and innovation. Learn more about ESYO at esyo.org.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume,  and video links demonstrating conducting or teaching to [email protected] with the subject line: Associate Music Director – [Your Name]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

ESYO is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.