Music Director, Dance

Music Director, Dance

R

Poughkeepsie, NY

Department

Dance

Job Family

Administrator

Vassar College is deeply committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees by promoting an environment of transparency and respect for differences. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds who meet the qualifications of a posting. If you need to request an accommodation to fully participate in the search process, please contact

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Music Director is the key resource for the students, faculty and staff of the Vassar College Dance Department. The Music Director maintains the department's music library, oversees music editing for performances, and ensures that all musical elements meet high artistic standards. This role serves in selecting appropriate repertoire and supporting rehearsals, contributing to the overall excellence of the department's educational and performance offerings.

Responsibilities:

• Manage musician staff for weekly studio classes such as ballet, pointe, jazz, and modern with a thorough knowledge of the specialized music skills needed to accompany such classes.
• Edit all music for multiple dance performances each year, work with the Theater Director to ensure music quality for performances.
• Stay abreast of new music editing technology and update the department's music editing software as needed.
• Research, obtain and rehearse music required by rehearsal director or choreographer
• Regular practice to maintain and improve pianistic skills
• Advise and work with faculty and students regarding music selection.
• Rehearse with faculty and/or students outside scheduled lesson times.
• Assist rehearsal directors and choreographers with rehearsal leadership.
• Collaborate with music faculty for additional performance projects as needed.
• Compile new music scores for our music library.

Required knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Advanced piano playing, inclusive of sight reading, and a broad knowledge of musical styles.
• Thorough knowledge of piano repertoire.
• Ability to choose appropriate music as instructor sets exercise during class and to respond immediately when asked to find an alternative choice of music.
• Ability to improvise in classical or contemporary styles appropriate to the classes being taught.
• Ability to memorize, prepare, and adapt musical selections for classwork, class projects, and performances.
• Knowledge of terminology relating to ballet, jazz, and modern dance.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with choreographers, students, faculty and staff.
• Ability to clearly communicate orally and in writing and to follow routine verbal and written instructions.
• Must be able to work on short notice if needed.
• Ability to interact effectively with a diverse community.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to interact socially with others.

Preferred knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge of music theory including fundamentals for musical periods.
• Knowledge of historical performance practices and styles related to piano technique.
• Two or more years prior accompanist experience.

Compensation

The compensation for this position is $29.77 -$38.71 hourly.

When extending an offer, Vassar College considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, budget, and other market and organizational considerations. The starting salary range represents the College's good faith and reasonable estimate at the time of posting.

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