Youth Orchestra Conductor Job Description
A youth orchestra conductor allows an individual to combine his passion for instrumental music and youth. A youth conductor can introduce new music to the orchestra, as well as the audience members. A youth orchestra's performance of a classic song can sound new or fresh because of the conductor's arrangement.
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Responsibilities
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Youth conductors' responsibilities vary. Youth orchestra conductors' responsibilities vary. They must, however, conduct rehearsals and performances, and they select the orchestra's repertoire. The conductor decides on the arrangement of the music and selects soloists. Youth orchestra conductors must be able to invoke the best sounds and performances from their musicians. Also, youth orchestra conductors may recruit and audition students for the orchestra. Some conductors train students on their instruments. Youth conductors must encourage and educate orchestra members when necessary.
Skills
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Youth orchestra conductors should be musicians. In addition to being a talented musician and having conducting skills, youth orchestra conductors must possess strong leadership skills. Also, a youth orchestra conductor must have effective interpersonal and communication skills since they must interact with youth, parents, audiences and organization leaders and staff members. Relationship-building skills prove to be important when interacting with music teachers, community members and potential orchestra members and their parents. Organizational skills are necessary for rehearsals and managing the needs of the orchestra.
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Education
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Most youth orchestra conductors have gone to college. Many music programs or companies require that their youth orchestra conductors have at least a bachelor's degree in music or music education. Some youth orchestra conductors do possess a master's degree in music performance, for instance. Advanced degrees may encourage career advancement.
Experience
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Some conductors are expert string musicians. Usually, youth orchestra conductors have experience or expertise playing one or several instruments. Some music departments prefer that their youth orchestra conductor has expertise playing stringed instruments. In addition to experience playing instruments, a youth orchestra conductor usually has previous conducting or teaching experience.
Salary
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Youth orchestra salaries vary. Youth conductors' salaries will vary according to location and employer. However, the average salary of youth orchestra conductors, as of April 2010, according to simplyhired.com, is $40,000. A youth conductor in New York can expect to earn near $47,000, whereas a youth conductor in Georgia may earn near $38,000, according to the same site. Youth orchestra conductors in Washington might earn near $44,000, and those in Idaho may earn around $35,000.
Job Outlook
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Youth orchestra conductor jobs are available. The music industry proves to be a competitive industry. However, youth orchestra conductor jobs can be found at schools, through universities and colleges, and through other artistic organizations and companies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, music industry jobs, such as conductor, composer, singer and musician, was expected to experience an average growth rate from 2010 through 2018.
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References
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