Description
The Director of College Choir will plan, lead, direct, and coordinate the activities of the Stillman College Choir in alignment with the College’s strategic goals for student engagement, recruitment, and retention. As part of the Division of Student Success, this role contributes directly to enhancing student life, fostering institutional pride, and supporting enrollment growth. The Director serves as a visible ambassador for the College—both on and off campus—through exceptional musical programming, community partnerships, and high-impact performances that showcase Stillman’s talent and values.
Job Responsibilities
Job Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Provide visionary leadership for all facets of the College Choir program including musical direction, recruitment, operations, and student development.
- Design and deliver a choral experience that celebrates the rich heritage of African American music while embracing diverse global repertoires.
- Plan and lead rehearsals and performances for College events (e.g., Convocations, Commencement, Founder’s Day), community concerts, and recruitment-focused tours.
- Collaborate with the Office of Admissions and Enrollment to integrate choir performances into high school visits, preview days, and accepted student events.
- Proactively recruit prospective students to join the choir as a pathway to college enrollment, with special focus on high schools, churches, and community music programs.
- Partner with Enrollment Management to design pipeline programs and strategic engagements that support enrollment goals.
- Provide mentorship and holistic support to choir members to promote academic persistence and personal development.
- Coordinate travel and performance logistics for local and out-of-town engagements, including choir tours that raise visibility and attract prospective students.
- Manage the operational and administrative aspects of the program including budgets, procurement, music library, attire, and marketing.
- Cultivate community partnerships and alumni relationships to enhance engagement, performance opportunities, and donor support.
- Oversee accompanists, student assistants, and technical production to ensure high-quality performances.
- Promote a culture of professionalism, discipline, and excellence among student performers.
- Encourage participation in the arts as a form of leadership development and spiritual enrichment.
- Represent Stillman College at community, church, civic, and regional events, strengthening institutional reputation through music.
- Ensure all choir-related activities comply with institutional, legal, and safety standards.
- Participate in division-wide student success initiatives, including orientation, campus traditions, and leadership programs.
- Develop and execute fundraising strategies and campaigns in collaboration with Institutional Advancement.
- Pursue grant opportunities, sponsorships, and donations to support travel, equipment, and special programming.
- Engage choir alumni and supporters to promote ongoing philanthropic investment in the choral program.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EDUCATION REQUIRED:
- Master’s degree in Music, Music Education, Choral Conducting, or a related field required; Doctorate preferred. (A combination of practical conducting experiences may be substituted if appropriate.)
- Minimum of seven years of experience directing choirs or vocal ensembles, preferably at the collegiate level.
- Demonstrated success in student recruitment, particularly within music or performing arts contexts.
- Strong keyboard skills and the ability to accompany rehearsals when necessary.
- Ability to design programs that support enrollment and reflect institutional identity.
- Familiarity with African American musical traditions and sacred music required.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with music notation software (e.g., Finale, Sibelius) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Demonstrated commitment to student development, retention, and inclusive excellence.
- Willingness to travel and work evenings/weekends for rehearsals, performances, and recruitment events.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to coordinate student travel logistics.
- Experience with fundraising, grant writing, and donor engagement preferred.
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Work Schedule: (a full-time, 12-month in-person position) Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (Possible variations, including evening or weekend rehearsals, performances, or travel for
tours and events)
Stillman College is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to apply.