What are the responsibilities and job description for the Interim Orchestra Director position at Inside Higher Ed?
The Department of Music at Smith College invites applications for a half time, one- year, benefit eligible position to begin July 1, 2026. Responsibilities include conducting all concerts during the academic year, which typically is between four and five, lead weekly rehearsals, lead dress rehearsals, and all associated administrative tasks for the College orchestra. The successful candidate will also work collaboratively with the director of choral activities. Attendance at some department meetings will also be expected.
In addition to a competitive benefits package, starting pay range for this position is typically between $37,100- $38,100. Actual compensation will vary based on individual qualifications.
Candidates should have a strong foundation in orchestral conducting and experience working with college students. A Master of Music in Conducting is required. Candidates from groups underrepresented in orchestral conducting are encouraged to apply.
Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is the largest women’s college in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty projects. Smith College offers opportunities to foster faculty success at every career stage, such as those listed here. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges. Details about the Department of Music may be found at https://www.smith.edu/academics/programs-courses/academic-programs/music
As set forth in our mission and values, Smith College is committed to promoting a culture of equity and inclusion among students, staff and faculty. The College will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by law. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination.
Application Instructions
Submit application at https://apply.interfolio.com/183999 with a cover letter, curriculum vitae, equity and inclusion statement, two confidential letters of recommendation, and a document with the links to video footage of no more than 30 minutes that includes up to 10 minutes of rehearsal of two contrasting pieces of music and 10 minutes of a performance. A short statement explaining each of the clips should be included in that document. Finalists may be asked for additional materials. Review of applications will begin on April 13, 2026.
In addition to a competitive benefits package, starting pay range for this position is typically between $37,100- $38,100. Actual compensation will vary based on individual qualifications.
Candidates should have a strong foundation in orchestral conducting and experience working with college students. A Master of Music in Conducting is required. Candidates from groups underrepresented in orchestral conducting are encouraged to apply.
Located in Northampton, MA, Smith College is the largest women’s college in the country and is dedicated to excellence in teaching and research across the liberal arts. A faculty of outstanding scholars interact with students in small classes, as advisors, and through student-faculty projects. Smith College offers opportunities to foster faculty success at every career stage, such as those listed here. The College is a member of the Five College Consortium with Amherst, Hampshire and Mt. Holyoke Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Students cross-enroll and faculty cross-teach across the Five Colleges. Details about the Department of Music may be found at https://www.smith.edu/academics/programs-courses/academic-programs/music
As set forth in our mission and values, Smith College is committed to promoting a culture of equity and inclusion among students, staff and faculty. The College will not discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by law. Smith College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination.
Application Instructions
Submit application at https://apply.interfolio.com/183999 with a cover letter, curriculum vitae, equity and inclusion statement, two confidential letters of recommendation, and a document with the links to video footage of no more than 30 minutes that includes up to 10 minutes of rehearsal of two contrasting pieces of music and 10 minutes of a performance. A short statement explaining each of the clips should be included in that document. Finalists may be asked for additional materials. Review of applications will begin on April 13, 2026.
Salary : $37,100 - $38,100