The Greater Richmond Children’s Choir (GRCC) is seeking an assistant director/piano accompanist for its training and advanced ensembles. See the description below. This position is available July 1st. GRCC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts education organization in Richmond, Virginia. Website: www.grcchoir.org
Begun in 1997, the critically acclaimed Greater Richmond Children’s Choir has sung on four continents in over 40 languages and is recognized for its commitment to excellence and diversity. Under the guidance of Artistic Director Crystal Jonkman, GRCC offers boys and girls, ages 8 to 18, the opportunity to excel through the graduated study and performance of high-quality choral music with students from all around the region. With generous support from the central Virginia community and beyond, GRCC offers tuition and travel scholarships to more than one third of choristers, making the program accessible to all. School year rehearsals take place September to May at Grace & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, and summer camp is held at Westover Hills United Methodist Church.
JOB DESCRIPTION (NOTE: These duties could be split by two directors. Please note in your communication if you are interested in the full position or if you would like to apply for the ”Monday” or “Tuesday” role.)
· Accompany and assist in directing the Cantare (SATB) choir. This choir is comprised two ensembles: Pro Arte (advanced trebles) and Cavalieri (changed voice boys). The groups also rehearse and perform individually. Rehearsals take place Mondays, 6:15 – 8:30 PM, with directors arriving 30 minutes beforehand.
· Accompany and assist in directing the Treble Choir (training choir) and Concert Choir (intermediate choir) on Tuesdays from approximately 4:45 – 6:30 PM, with directors arriving 30 minutes beforehand.
· Accompany and assist in teaching during GRCC’s annual summer camp – this year July 29-Aug. 2, 8:30-1:30
· Participate in Saturday rehearsals as scheduled once per semester
· Perform with the choir groups in 10-14 community concerts during the season at venues throughout the Richmond area, as scheduled. The 2024-2025 season includes a return performance with the Richmond Symphony.
· Periodic additional rehearsals as needed.
· Tour with the choir every other year (national and international).
QUALIFICATIONS
· Undergraduate degree in relevant field; post-graduate degree is preferred
· Prior experience as a choral accompanist, music educator and/or conductor
· Strong technical and artistic abilities
· Excellent music sight-reading skills
· Excellent advance rehearsal preparation of both piano and voice parts
· Strong understanding of the voice and choral techniques
· High level of responsibility and professionalism
· A pleasant demeanor with strong communication skills
· Enjoys working with young singers
The accompanist/assistant director is considered a valued member of the GRCC artistic staff, and is expected to have a vested interest in the students’ growth and continued success.
Annual salary range approximately $3,500-7,500 (about $25-31/contact hour)
based on experience and whether the duties are filled by one or two directors.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested applicants should submit cover letter, resume including work experience, 3
references, and performance video (if available) to Anne Williford, Executive Director via e-mail grcchoir@gmail.com.
References should include their contact phone number and e-mail address. At least one
reference should be a conductor with whom you have worked.
An audition will be held during the scheduled interview to include 3 pieces:
1. Demonstrate conducting and accompanying skills with music to be provided to candidate in advance.
2. Pianist’s Choice - prepare a piece/excerpt that best demonstrates your technique &
playing abilities. Any style, solo or choral piece, no longer than 2 minutes. Please bring an extra copy to the audition.
3. Sight reading piece which will be provided at the interview.
Greater Richmond Children’s Choir is a non-profit, non-sectarian, equal opportunity cultural arts organization. Itdoes not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in theemployment of faculty or staff, the admission or treatment of students, or in the operation of its educationactivities. Anyone meeting the above qualifications is encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will be subject to a background check.
