Artistic and Production Assistant
/Job Title:
Artistic and Production Assistant
Organization:
Turning Point Ensemble (TPE)
Deadline:
Sep. 30, 2026
Organization Description:
Founded in 2002 by its musician members, Turning Point Ensemble (TPE) is a large chamber ensemble (16 instrumentalists and conductor) with a mandate to increase the understanding and appreciation of music composed during the past hundred years.
The central artistic vision of the TPE is to bring to the public extraordinary music for large chamber ensemble written from the early 20th century through to present day. We draw audiences to this music through outstanding performances, and intelligent programming that creates a lively context for the music. We seek to create links from the music of earlier times to new music, to explore relationships and connections between composers and their music, to perform significant large-scale works from the Canadian and international repertoire, to collaborate with multiple art forms in extraordinary ways, and to establish meaningful long-term relationships with some of Canada’s most talented composers through commissioning and multiple performances.
Website:
http://turningpointensemble.ca
Job Description:
Reporting to the Artistic Director (AD), the Artistic and Production Assistant will support ongoing artistic planning, and artistic and production coordination of TPE live performances, rehearsals, recordings, and tours. Ongoing artistic planning includes working with the AD, TPE Programming Committee, and Director of Outreach (DO) on future season proposals, and additional artistic and educational projects. Production support involves designated responsibilities including artistic preparation (music rental, logistics), on-site rehearsing, liaising with artists, live performance support, and other production and technical coordination of interdisciplinary and concert events.
Working Conditions
• Evening and weekend work for performances and rehearsals.
• Hands-on involvement in physically demanding aspects of production, such as equipment setup and breakdown.
• Travel may be required for tours, both domestically and internationally.
Mentorship
As the Artistic and Production Assistant will be reporting and working directly with Artistic Director Owen Underhill, the position offers a mentorship opportunity in the creative skills of curation, performance, and production of contemporary music and interdisciplinary artmaking with a unique high quality large-size professional ensemble (TPE). Depending on musical skills of the successful candidate, other opportunities to be involved artistically in the work of TPE may present themselves.
Responsibilities:
Artistic Curation and Development Support
• Work with AD in the preparation of 3-year Artistic Plan for 2027-29 period
• Attend Programming Committee meetings
• Develop potential ideas for programming and approval
Artistic Production Planning & Execution
• Support the planning of ensemble performances and events including concerts, rehearsals, tours and recording sessions (e.g. music rental and distribution, rehearsal planning and execution, and collaborative discussions internally and with external partners)
• Assist AD and General Manager (GM) on sourcing and development of written programs and other online support materials (e.g. bios, program notes, other written materials)
• Assist AD with composers and musicians to understand technical and production needs for each project
• Assist AD and GM in coordinating technical and production requirements in various areas including equipment rentals, cartage transportation, and other basic setup and technical work
• Be on hand during rehearsals, performances, set-up and strike-downs for various support tasks including stage management, and the resolution of any production-related issues in real time
Educational Programming and Events
• Support selected public educational programming as directed by Director of Outreach (DO) where warranted
Documentation & Reporting
• Assist GM in maintaining detailed records of production plans, contracts, and financials as required.
• Provide post-performance reports and debriefs as required
Team & Stakeholder Participation
• Participate with artistic and production teams and TPE board committees in planning and executing TPE projects
Health & Safety Compliance
• Ensure all production activities comply with health and safety regulations.
• Develop and implement safety protocols for rehearsal and performance spaces
• Coordinate risk assessments for venues and ensure proper handling of instruments and equipment.
Qualifications:
Education: A BA or BMus degree in Music or higher
Musical skills: Advanced Composition and/or Performance skills in contemporary/experimental music
Curation: Some experience in producing and participating in concerts of contemporary/experimental music
Project Management: Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
Technical Skills: Some proficiency in audio, lighting, and/or production software is a plus
Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively work with artists, technical teams, and external partners.
Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot and adapt to challenges in a fast-paced, live-event environment.
Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail in planning, execution, and post-event wrap-up.
How to Apply:
Please apply by email with your cover letter and resume no later than September 30, 2026. Send to: gm@turningpointensemble.ca
We are dedicated to building an inclusive team and actively seek applicants from equity-deserving groups, including Indigenous peoples, minority communities, immigrants, persons with disabilities and the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Remuneration:
$9,000-$10,000 per season (September-June) (approximately 280 hours per season)
