Page 52 - AYO Governance Manual Draft

Music Director
POSITION DESCRIPTION
AUCKLAND YOUTH ORCHESTRA

Reports to Executive Committee
Date May 2020

Position Summary
The Music Director is responsible for delivering the musical objectives of the orchestra and
for the standard and development of the orchestra. The Music Director encourages the
fostering of knowledge and performance of classical music in the Orchestra.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Directorship
 Prepare for and conduct all rehearsals and concerts.
o Deliver inspirational, exciting, high quality AYO programmes and performances.
o Select tutors, prepare instructions for tutors and supervise sectionals.
o Supervise orchestra setup and coordinate special setup requirements.
 Set, communicate and implement short and long term goals for the education of
players and development of the orchestra.
 Chair the Artistic Sub-Committee to assist with the selection repertoire from the wide
history of classical music taking into account factors such as ensemble size and abilities,
availability and cost of music and the need for musical variety within a budget agreed with
the Committee.
o Select excellent soloists to perform with AYO, with a particular emphasis on
supporting young local musicians.

2. Scheduling
 Prepare the orchestra's annual schedule with Committee delegates to achieve
artistic goals while maximising services for financial benefit.
 Set rehearsal orders at the beginning of each programme – give players 3
days’ notice if changes are required.
 Prepare a rehearsal order spreadsheet. Aim to divide rehearsal time
appropriately between repertoire and take into particular consideration the
comings·and·goings of wind, brass and percussion. Don't rehearse a
string-only piece between a concerto involving winds and a symphony -
the wind players will have to hang around unnecessarily. It is better to
rehearse the string-only piece first or last.

3. Music Administration

 Liaise with AYO Librarian to acquire music.
 Arrange for, borrow or hire any special instruments needed for a programme.
 Ensure three copies of each score are printed for each programme.
 Set part allocations and seating orders at least 4 weeks before a programme.
 Set all bowings at least 2 weeks before a programme. Ensure that all bowings and
markings are clear and consistent before parts are photocopied.
 Arrange for distribution of music in AYO folders to players at least 1 week before a
programme.

o With help of PRs, keep a record of all music folders and parts issued to players.
o Ensure that all music and folders are collected after the final concert and returned to
AYO storage or the AYO music librarian.