Orchestra Manager
/ORGANIZATION:
Vancouver Academy of Music
DEADLINE:
Until Filled
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:
Founded in 1969, the Vancouver Academy of Music (VAM) is a non-profit institution that has been spreading a love of learning and musical excellence for generations of aspiring musicians. Minutes away from downtown in a traffic-calmed location, VAM is housed in a spacious facility with teaching studios, large classrooms, two performance halls, and the inspiring scenic backdrop of Vanier Park.
In addition to private lessons and class instruction, VAM students have the opportunity to engage with world-renowned visiting artists in masterclasses, exchange with national and international partners, and participate in numerous performance and competition opportunities. VAM’s fundamental purpose is to explore the transformative power of music through fostering an inclusive learning environment led by a team of devoted faculty with strong professional backgrounds.
WEBSITE:
http://vam.ca
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Note: this contract is for maternity leave coverage from November 18, 2025, to June 5, 2027.
Reporting to the Director of Enrolment, the Orchestra Manager is responsible for managing and coordinating all activities in VAM’s Orchestral Program. The incumbent works closely with artistic directors, parents, students, and faculty to foster a positive learning environment and enhance the overall educational experience for VAM’s orchestral community.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Oversee VAM’s orchestras: VAM Friendly Philharmonic, Junior Symphony, Intermediate Symphony, and VAM Symphony Orchestra
Supervise the Orchestra & Programs Assistant
Coordinate summer orchestra camps
Maintain clear and up-to-date records of student enrollment
Issue regular communications to parents and students
Coordinate the audition process, circulate audition videos for review, issue results, and ensure registration
Manage rehearsal operations: ensure setup needs are met, take attendance, address personnel issues, engage in regular check-ins with conductors, and ensure adequate staffing of instructional support staff
Manage orchestra concert operations: coordinate event support staff, prepare/print concert programs, oversee back-of-house operations, handle production management, and liaise with venues for off-site concerts
Coordinate the production and circulation of orchestral parts to students, identify and address instrumentation needs, coordinate with music arrangers when needed, and maintain and update an organized library of scores and parts
QUALIFICATIONS:
A bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 3 years in a prior orchestra administration and/or production role, or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and experience
Weekend availability for weekly Saturday rehearsals and Saturday/Sunday concerts
Knowledge of orchestral repertoire and instrumentation
Ability to diplomatically navigate and resolve personnel issues while maintaining professionalism and fostering positive relationships
Excellent written and spoken communication skills
Strong attention to detail
Strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and manage multiple deadlines
Ability to work in a team environment
Ability to reliably commute to the VAM facility
HOW TO APPLY:
Apply online at vam.ca/careers
REMUNERATION:
$52,000–$57,000 per year
