Job Title: Artistic Director
Organization: Lakeview Orchestra, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization
About Lakeview Orchestra:
Founded in 2013, Lakeview Orchestra is recognized as “Chicago’s premier non-professional orchestra” (Chicago Classical Review). Led by Artistic Director Gregory Hughes, the orchestra is home to professionally-trained musicians dedicated to presenting diverse and acclaimed performances to advance its mission: to engage, entertain, and educate audiences through symphony music. Hosting performances at the historic Athenaeum Center, the orchestra's commitment to artistic excellence has earned multiple awards, including the prestigious Orchestra of the Year in 2016 from the Illinois Council of Orchestras. To learn more about Lakeview Orchestra, please visit lakevieworchestra.org.
Position Overview:
Lakeview Orchestra seeks the next Artistic Director to lead the orchestra’s artistic programming and performances. This position reports to the organization’s Board of Directors and works collaboratively with administrative staff.
The orchestra currently performs five concerts each season, from September to June, on the Athenaeum Center’s main stage and strives to foster a strong sense of community within the ensemble and with our broader Chicagoland audience.
Responsibilities include:
Develop Artistic Vision & Programming
Lead Performances and Rehearsals
Collaborate with Board of Directors
Engage with audience and community members
Promote Lakeview Orchestra's mission and concerts
Engage in fundraising efforts as time allows
Required Qualifications:
Exceptional musicianship with a deep knowledge of orchestral repertoire across various periods and styles.
Strong conducting skills, including leading effective rehearsals and clearly communicating musical ideas to musicians of all levels.
Experience working with volunteer ensembles is a plus.
A warm and approachable leadership style, capable of fostering a fun, collaborative, inclusive, and supportive environment within the orchestra.
Ability to motivate and inspire musicians while balancing high artistic expectations and understanding a volunteer orchestra’s unique needs.
Must be a resident of Chicago or the surrounding suburbs with existing or emerging connections to the local arts community.
Shows enthusiasm for building relationships with local audiences, arts organizations, and other stakeholders.
Time Commitment
Lead five concert cycles per season, including time for rehearsals (approximately six 2.5-hour-long rehearsals per concert cycle) and personal concert preparation.
Allocate additional time for donor engagement and community outreach activities within the bounds of a part-time commitment.
Attend quarterly board meetings as a non-voting member and present the Artistic Committee report.
Attend community and fundraising events on behalf of Lakeview Orchestra when possible.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit the following:
Cover letter detailing your experience and vision for leading a volunteer orchestra.
Résumé or CV outlining relevant musical and leadership experience.
Three to five sample concert programs or repertoire lists you have developed or conducted.
Three references to contact. These people may be colleagues, musicians, or board members familiar with your work.
Two conducting videos of contrasting styles from the perspective of the orchestra demonstrating your artistic abilities.
Applications will be accepted until January 3, 2025 and reviewed by the Artistic Director Search Committee. Initial interviews will be conducted in early 2025 and finalists will be invited to rehearse and conduct a concert cycle in the 2025-2026 season. The artistic director of Lakeview Orchestra will be selected at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season and commence their role at the beginning of the 2026-2027 season.
You can find more detailed information in the position announcement linked here and apply using the button below.
If you have an questions please email apply@lakevieworchestra.org.