Artistic Director (The Houston Ebony Music Society, Inc./Houston Ebony Opera Guild)

Position Overview:

The Artistic Director acts in a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and guiding the artistic vision and direction of Houston Ebony Opera Guild. This individual leads in the development and execution of the organization's artistic programs, ensuring the highest standards of artistic excellence. The Artistic Director works closely with the Board of Directors, ad-hoc and volunteer staff, and other artistic personnel to create innovative and engaging performances that fulfill the organization's mission and objectives. This position is not one of full-time employment with The Houston Ebony Music Society, Inc. but is an independent service provider to Houston Ebony Opera Guild.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a senior artistic leadership role within a concert producing or similar arts organization

• Strong artistic vision and the ability to translate that vision into successful programming performances

• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate creative teams and administrative staff

• Excellent communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with board members, staff, and artistic personnel

• Strong organizational and managerial skills, with experience in budgeting and financial management for the performing arts non-profit

• Background in performing arts, with experience as a conductor, soloist, or in another artistic capacity preferred

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Development and Design:

   1. Establish and develop the organization's creative vision over several years

   2. Plan and design the artistic programs, including selecting the season repertoire

   3. Oversee the creation and execution of artistic projects and initiatives, including printed materials for performance events

2.  Board Consulting:

   1. Maintain ongoing consultation with board members regarding artistic direction, programming, budget, strategic planning and dealing with funding bodies, i.e., the government, sponsors, trusts, etc.

   2. Present and discuss artistic plans, strategies, and progress of related event plans to the as deemed necessary

3.  Selection and Management of Artistic Personnel:

   1. Select soloists, guest conductors, and all other artistic personnel as needed.

   2. Oversee the recruitment and engagement of creative team members, including pianists, guest conductors, instrumentalists and others as needed

   3. Lead and motivate creative teams on individual productions

4.  Rehearsal and Venue Oversight:

   1. Oversee the scheduling and execution of rehearsals

   2. Coordinate and manage rehearsal venues and performance spaces

5.  Repertoire Selection and/or Approval:

   1. Select and approve repertoire in consultation with guest conductors and members of the HEMS Board as appropriate

   2. Ensure the chosen repertoire aligns with the organization's artistic vision and goals

6.  Leadership and Decision Making:

   1. In consultation with the Board leadership, make major decisions regarding the organization's aesthetic values and artistic activities

   2. Lead and inspire both creative and administrative staff to achieve organizational objectives

 Occasional Duties:

1. Perform as a soloist as appropriate, conductor, or in other artistic roles as needed for no fee

2. Contribute to staging and graphic design efforts to enhance production quality

Interested applicants may submit a cover letter and resume to Mrs. Connie Howard at connierl.howard@att.net