Contemporary Youth Orchestra (CYO) seeks a dynamic and energetic conductor and educator to lead our premier youth orchestra in Cleveland, Ohio. CYO changes lives through the study and performance of new and contemporary music and introduces students to opportunities in the creative arts industries. Candidates should have a distinct interest in contemporary orchestral literature and demonstrated experience leading youth ensembles.
The Music Director is responsible for the preparation and execution of CYO’s artistic vision through rehearsals and performances. The ideal candidate will be able to foster an environment where students, families, staff, organizational partners and the broader community experience CYO as a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization connected through music. In addition to demonstrating expertise as a skilled conductor, the ideal candidate knows how to inspire the minds and hearts of young people and welcomes the opportunity to make a lasting impact on these young musicians.
Who We Are
Contemporary Youth Orchestra (CYO) includes advanced ensembles that focus on the study and performance of orchestral works by living composers. Made up of musicians aged 12 to 18 and representing more than 60 schools in Ohio, CYO fosters students’ technical ability and creative growth in a challenging yet supportive community.
We are in residency at Cuyahoga Community College (Metro Campus), and we are a community of staff, parents, volunteers, students, musicians and teachers who are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We believe that music is a powerful vehicle through which we can cultivate connections between people and communities.
CYO has premiered works by Pulitzer Prize winning composers, commissioned innovative new works and performed at Cleveland’s most respected music venues. Since 2004, CYO has presented its signature Rock the Orchestra concerts with illustrious rock musicians such as Melissa Etheridge, Ben Folds, Jason Mraz and Chris Thile. To learn more about CYO, please visit us at www.cyorchestra.org.
CYO values and embraces the full spectrum of human differences (life experiences, work experiences, perspectives, cultures, ethnicity, gender, age and other aspects of life) and understands that creating and maintaining an inclusive environment is integral to our success. Our culture is defined by practices and policies that recognize and embrace each person’s unique abilities, strengths and differences. We promote diversity and inclusion within our organization, the students and families we serve, and all others with whom we interact.
About the position
The Music Director serves as the full and string orchestras’ primary conductor and works collaboratively with the CYO team to establish and meet CYO’s goals. The Music Director exercises leadership in artistic matters, including repertoire selection, auditions, rehearsals, competitions, the selection and seating of players, and ensuring that CYO students receive a top-quality educational and artistic experience.
Core Duties and Responsibilities
Education/Experience Requirements
Application Information
Please email the following to Executive Director Kimberly Deichler at kim@cyorchestra.org by August 1, 2021: