Join the Charleston Symphony: A Bold Vision for the Future

As Charleston continues to grow into a dynamic cultural hub, the Charleston Symphony (CSO) is embracing an ambitious vision for the future—one that elevates artistic excellence, deepens community impact, and ensures long-term sustainability. With the region’s population projected to surpass one million by 2028, the CSO is committed to serving as a cultural leader, fostering transformative musical experiences, and expanding access to the arts for all.

Rooted in nearly 90 years of history, the CSO is at the forefront of innovation in orchestral music, driven by our core values of excellence, collaboration, and integrity. Our musicians, staff, and supporters are united by a belief in the power of music to inspire, unite, and enrich lives. Through world-class performances, educational initiatives that reach over 20,000 students annually, and a steadfast commitment to artistic and financial growth, we are shaping the future of orchestral music in Charleston and beyond.

The Opportunity

The Charleston Symphony seeks an inspiring and dedicated educator to lead the Charleston Symphony Youth Sinfonietta (CSYS) as its conductor. CSYS is a progressive training ensemble within the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO), a cornerstone of the CSO’s education initiatives, that develops students’ ensemble skills through string repertoire while also introducing them to their first symphonic performance experiences. This role requires a conductor who is deeply passionate about the transformative power of symphonic music in young musicians’ lives.

CSYS focuses on building strong ensemble skills while fostering artistic growth in a supportive and inclusive environment. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic leader who inspires excellence, embraces the learning process, and cultivates a sense of belonging among students. This individual will play a key role in expanding and strengthening the program’s impact on both students and the community.

The successful candidate will possess strong expertise in string pedagogy, instrumental techniques, rehearsal strategies, and orchestral literature. They will be actively engaged in program development, collaborating with educators, students, and the broader music community to enhance the CSYS experience.

This position reports to the Director of Education and Business Operations and will work closely with the CSYO Conductor and CSO Artistic Director to align with the organization’s artistic and educational vision.

Responsibilities:

• Selecting string and symphonic repertoire that is aligned with the expectations for the whole organization, in collaboration with CSYO Conductor, CSO Artistic Director, and CSO Director of Education.
• Prepare and conduct weekly two-hour rehearsals on Sundays from September through May.
• Lead CSYS performances, including three annual concerts and additional events as assigned.
• Assist in liaising with schools and community music educators to foster collaboration and visibility in the community.
• Support program recruitment efforts.
• Develop and select audition requirements in collaboration with the CSYO Conductor.
• Participate in student audition panels for prospective CSYO/CSYS members.
• Provide input on programs and marketing materials as needed.
• Communicate effectively and in a timely manner with the CSO Director of Education, CSYO Coordinator, and CSYO Conductor regarding scheduling and program needs.
• Perform light administrative tasks as required.
• Serve as a mentor and role model, embodying the CSO’s commitment to:
  • Artistic excellence in an inclusive learning environment.
  • Inspiring and motivating young musicians.
  • Encouraging growth on and off stage
  • Demonstrate a strong commitment to music education and youth development.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music Performance, Music Education (string emphasis), or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of three years’ conducting experience.
• Experience working with students, including classroom management
• Proven track record of effective teaching and student mentorship.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage with students, parents, educators, and community stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, with a team-oriented mindset.

Other Requirements:

• Authorization to work in the United States
• Fluent in English
• Must pass a background check

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should submit the following required materials online using the form below no later than April 2, 2025:

• Cover letter
• Resume (include names and contact information of three references)
• Video of conducting sample

Candidates will be notified by April 4^th and will be invited to live auditions with the Charleston Symphony Youth Strings on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Candidates are responsible for their own transportation to and from Charleston. Invited candidates will be required to present proof of their legal eligibility to work in the United States as a condition of being accepted to audition.

Compensation: $10,000