ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Diablo Choral Artists (DCA) is an auditioned community chamber choir in Walnut Creek, CA, which has been rehearsing regularly and performing concerts for over 30 years. DCA presents significant works of sacred and secular choral music at concerts in December and the spring of each year, as well as other performance opportunities as they arise.  DCA’s rehearsal and performance calendar generally runs from the middle of August to the end of May or beginning of June, depending on concert schedule.

     DCA is seeking an energetic, innovative Artistic Director who will build on our tradition of musical excellence, grow our membership of experienced amateur singers, enhance our repertoire, expand our audience, and assist in developing a firm financial foundation for the choir’s future. More information about DCA - including its Mission and Vision Statements - is available at its website, dcachorus.org; DCA virtual performances can be accessed on YouTube at dcachorus.org.

Artistic Director Responsibilities

     The Artistic Director provides overall artistic direction for DCA concerts and other activities consistent with DCA’s Mission and Vision Statements and in collaboration with the Board of Directors. 

Overall Duties Include:

• Plan in a timely manner and obtain Board approval of the programming of annual concert seasons, with a range of repertoire that will be interesting and challenging for singers, and enjoyable and exciting for audiences;
• Serve as ex officio member of Board of Directors and attend monthly meetings of the Board;
• Prepare estimated budgets for concert seasons in terms of costs for instrumentalists and soloists, if necessary, as well as any necessary costs to purchase music scores;
• Conduct weekly choir rehearsals and at least one 5-hour Saturday retreat rehearsal in the fall and in the spring in preparation for concerts;
• Collaborate productively with DCA accompanist to provide a positive rehearsal environment and an efficient, effective rehearsal;
• Encourage singer participation and preparation to achieve high performance standards, including locating (or creating) appropriate practice aids by part;
• Conduct all performances of DCA, including any given on special occasions;
• Participate in local media outreach to recruit singers and promote concerts;
• Assist in preparation of programs, flyers, and other advertising for concerts, including writing program notes as required for each concert;
• Assist in developing and implementing fundraising strategies, such as silent auctions, etc.
• Audition singers for membership in DCA and make determinations of the eligibility of each applicant;
• Provide ongoing instruction in vocal production and choral techniques to the chorus with the goal of improving the artistic quality of the choir;
• When necessary, audition, hire, and prepare instrumentalists, professional soloists, and non-member singers, and provide for fee negotiation with the Board of Directors;
• Assist the Board in developing new streams of revenue, finding new venues for performances, and developing new collaborations with other choirs and musical organizations in Contra Costa County and nearby locations;
• Perform any other duties that may be agreed upon between the Board and the Artistic Director.

Requirements:

• Professional experience as a choral director;
• Appropriate music degree or equivalent professional experience;
• Organizational and planning skills;
• Ability to work productively with singers of different levels of musical experience and ability;
• Good people skills, including ability to establish rapport with choir members and audiences;
• Extensive knowledge of choral literature and experience conducting both traditional masterpieces and contemporary choral repertoire, including music of historically underrepresented composers and styles.
• NOTE: Excellent keyboard skills, as well as technical ability and experience with streaming concerts and zoom rehearsals, would be a plus.

Contract and Compensation:

The Artistic Director is a part-time position as an independent contractor for a term from August 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, with the potential for annual renewal.  Compensation will be based on experience and qualifications, with potential compensation ranging from $12,000 to $18,000 annually. DCA is a California non-profit.