Conductor

Now entering its sixth season, the Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra is a community youth orchestra of approximately 50 musicians between the ages of 8 and 18. Students represent a wide range of musical experience and ability and are supported by a team of professional sectional coaches.

The successful candidate will help students develop strong ensemble skills, musical confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for orchestral music while working within a positive and collaborative learning environment.

A typical term consists of approximately 13–15 services, including:

• One concert.
• Approximately 12 weekly rehearsals.
• Occasional additional performances, such as the Kiwanis Music Festival or community collaborations.

The orchestra's repertoire will be selected in advance by the Artistic Director. Programming consists primarily of educational orchestral literature and arrangements rather than full symphonic works.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Strong conducting and rehearsal leadership skills.
• Excellent musicianship.
• A passion for music education and mentoring young musicians.
• A belief that every student can continue to grow as a musician.
• Experience conducting youth orchestras, school ensembles, community orchestras, or similar ensembles.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to motivate students while maintaining an organized, engaging, and positive rehearsal atmosphere.

• Weekly rehearsals: Monday evenings, 7:00–8:30 PM
• Additional services include dress rehearsals and concerts.
• The Spring Recital will likely take place on a day other than Monday. All other regular services are scheduled for Monday evenings.

Interested applicants should submit:

• A current résumé.
• A letter of intent describing your interest in conducting a youth orchestra and working with young musicians.
• A list of conducting engagements from the past several years.
• Contact information for three professional references.
• Conducting and/or teaching video recordings, if available.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will remain open until the position is filled.

The Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra welcomes applications from conductors at various stages of their careers who are excited by the opportunity to inspire young musicians, build musical excellence, and contribute to a vibrant community arts organization.

Please note:
Successful applicants will be required to complete a Police Vulnerable Sector Check (or equivalent background screening) as a condition of working with SSYO. Background checks are renewed periodically in accordance with the organization's policies.

The Stratford Symphony Orchestra and Stratford Symphony Youth Orchestra are committed to continually evolving our understanding and practice of equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism. We believe that a vibrant musical community is strengthened by the diverse identities, experiences, and perspectives of its members.

We welcome applications from musicians and educators of all backgrounds and identities and strongly encourage artists who identify as First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black, People of Colour, disabled, and/or members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to apply. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all young musicians and artists feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow.