Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras Jazz Orchestra Conductor
Location: Fairfield, CT
Position Type: Part-Time Employee
Start Date: August 1, 2025
Application Deadline: July 15, 2025
About the Organization:
Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras is a dynamic, thriving youth music organization committed to nurturing young musicians through high-quality music education and performance experiences. We are currently seeking a passionate and dedicated Jazz Orchestra Conductor to lead one of our two youth jazz orchestras.
Position Summary:
The Jazz II Conductor will be responsible for directing a jazz ensemble made up of middle and high-school students. This includes cultivating jazz technique and improvisation skills, and preparing students for performances in a supportive, educational, and engaging musical environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead weekly rehearsals during the academic year (Saturdays, 12:15-1:15 PM)
- Select appropriate, diverse, and age-appropriate jazz repertoire
- Teach stylistic fundamentals, improvisation, ensemble techniques, and jazz history
- Foster a positive and inclusive environment that promotes musical growth and teamwork
- Collaborate with the Music Director and staff on programming and performance planning
- Conduct public performances, including 3 seasonal concerts per year in November, March, and May, and occasional special events
- Assist with Jazz auditions and student placement
- Communicate with families and staff regarding schedules, expectations, and student progress
Qualifications:
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in music, jazz studies, music education, or a related field
- Experience working with young musicians in a teaching, coaching, or conducting role
- Strong knowledge of jazz ensemble literature, styles, and improvisation.
- Effective rehearsal techniques and strong communication skills
- Commitment to youth development and music education.
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in music or music education
- Experience arranging or composing for student jazz ensembles
- Performance experience as a jazz musician
- Experience in community-based or non-profit youth music programs
- Experience with a wide range of styles beyond Jazz
- Must be a team player willing to help recruit young jazz musicians
Other duties:
- Attendance at staff meetings and some summer work
- Attendance at dress rehearsals, concerts, and occasional other student events
- Occasional committee work
- Attendance at professional development workshops
Teaching Artists are compensated (hourly rate) for attending scheduled professional development sessions and other additional activities that benefit the organization.
Salary: $4,500-$7,000 (annual), depending on experience and qualifications
Application Materials:
- Cover letter addressing your interest, experience, and approach to youth jazz education
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- 1–2 video samples of rehearsal or performance (with youth ensembles preferred)
- Contact information for 2–3 professional references.
Send applications to Chris Hisey, Music Director (musicdirector@gctyo.org) by July 15, 2025.
Selected candidates will be invited to teach a demo lesson at the beginning of our season in September.
Qualified individuals from backgrounds traditionally under-represented in the arts are strongly encouraged to apply. Read our DEI Statement and our Mission statement at gctyo.org. We are also on Facebook and Instagram.
Join a thriving organization and teach students who are eager to learn and dedicated to making music!