Choral Director: Lead Artistic Excellence

SUMMARY: The Westford Chorus seeks an experienced, dynamic, and collaborative Choral Director to provide artistic leadership for our community chorus. The Choral Director is responsible for planning and leading rehearsals, selecting repertoire, conducting performances, fostering musical excellence, and supporting the continued growth of the organization. This position requires exceptional musicianship, organizational ability, and interpersonal skills to inspire singers of varying musical backgrounds.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: REHEARSALSPlan and lead weekly rehearsals on Tuesdays from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., School group 9:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Develop and implement structured rehearsal plans that promote vocal technique, musical growth, and performance readiness. Teach vocal production, breathing, warm‑up exercises, pitch accuracy, diction, phrasing, blend, balance, and musical interpretation. If unable to attend a rehearsal, coordinate with the Assistant Director to lead the rehearsal and provide all necessary rehearsal materials and instructions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: PERFORMANCESConduct all scheduled concerts and performances. Direct community outreach performances throughout the season. If unable to attend an outreach event or concert, arrange for a qualified substitute director in consultation with the Board.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: ARTISTIC LEADERSHIPSelect high‑quality, engaging repertoire appropriate for the chorus’s abilities, mission, and performance venues. Present the proposed repertoire and music program for both the fall and spring seasons to the Board no later than July 1 each year. Order all music and coordinate music distribution as needed. Maintain an artistic vision that supports the continued growth and excellence of the Westford Chorus.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: CONCERT PLANNINGCoordinate additional musicians when required for rehearsals and performances, including contracting chamber orchestra players, accompanists, jazz ensembles, or other instrumentalists. Assist in identifying and evaluating concert venues appropriate for planned performances. Advise the Board regarding venue acoustics and the suitability of available pianos, organs, and other performance resources.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: AUDITIONSAssess vocal abilities and assign singers to appropriate voice sections. Select soloists when appropriate for performances.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: COLLABORATIONWork collaboratively with the Board of Directors, Assistant Director, accompanist, section leaders, volunteers, and committees. Support the organization’s mission by contributing ideas for artistic programming and communityQUALIFICATIONS – EDUCATIONBachelor’s degree in music, Music Education, Choral Conducting, or a closely related field required. Master’s degree preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS: EXPERIENCEDemonstrated experience directing community, collegiate, church, or school vocal ensembles. Proven success developing vocal technique and preparing ensembles for public performance. Experience programming concerts and conducting performances.

QUALIFICATIONS: KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLSExcellent conducting technique and rehearsal leadership. Strong vocal pedagogy and choral conducting skills. Advanced piano or keyboard proficiency sufficient for leading rehearsals. Thorough knowledge of music theory, choral literature, diction, and vocal production. Strong organizational and planning skills. Ability to analyze musical scores and prepare ensembles for stylistically appropriate performances. Artistic vision to sustain and grow a vibrant community choral program. PERSONAL QUALITIESOutstanding leadership and professionalism. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Patience, enthusiasm, and the ability to motivate volunteer singers. Strong organizational and time‑management skills. A collaborative approach to working with the Board and volunteers. A commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive rehearsal environment. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT Westford Chorus is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.