Job Description

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Compensation

: Conservatory Postsecondary teaching compensation is currently set at $59.20/hour.

Application Deadline

: 4:00pm PST, Friday, July 25, 2025.

Start Date

: September 2025.

To apply

: Submit cover letter, video, and current CV with two references to:

David Visentin, Associate Dean

visentin[at]vcm.bc.ca



Overview


Founded in 1964, the Victoria Conservatory of Music (VCM) has earned an outstanding reputation of quality in education, performance, and music therapy. As a music school for the whole community, the VCM welcomes students of all ages and musical abilities, and offers instruction in all musical genres, going beyond the traditional classical, folk, and contemporary, and now also including Music Technology and Creativity with Sound. Each year, over 3,000 music students and over 1800 music therapy participants experience the extensive array of programs the VCM has to offer year-round.


Among the VCM's six program areas, the Department of Postsecondary Studies (DPS) offers students multiple pathways to a successful career as a professional in the music or other creative industries, be it as performer, teacher, collaborator/creator, producer, or music technology specialist. With more than 40 faculty members teaching within this department, the DPS offers through its long-standing partnership with Camosun College a highly innovative and creative diploma program in music performance, as well as two certificate programs. The DPS also offers certificate programs through its designation with the Private Training Institutions Branch of the BC Ministry for Advanced Education, Skills, and Training. For more information on these programs, please visit vcm.bc.ca/postsecondary.



Job Summary


Reporting to the VCM Associate Dean/Director Postsecondary Studies, the VCM Chorale Conductor position supports the Large Ensemble academic requirements for students enrolled in Camosun/VCM Certificate in Music Creativity and Performance Foundations and the Diploma in Music Performance programs. Students in the Certificate require two terms of Large Ensemble and students in the Diploma require four terms of Large Ensemble. VCM Chorale is also open to VCM students registering through the VCM Community School. Repertoire for the group should encompass a balanced range from classical to jazz to contemporary. The size of the group may fluctuate year-to-year depending on cohort intake. VCM Chorale students are drawn from both the classical and contemporary streams that the VCM Postsecondary programs offer.


This is a one course, three-hour per week, 2 terms/year (Fall/Winter), 15 week (14 weeks plus concert) per term, part-time contract. The current rehearsal schedule is Monday/Wednesday 2:00-3:30pm in Wood Hall. The end-of-term Showcase concerts are typically in the first week of December and April, respectively.



Academic Calendar Description

Restricted to students in Music Performance or Music Creativity and Performance Foundations

Students prepare and perform masterworks for large performance ensemble under the guidance of a professional conductor. Several programs are fully prepared and additional repertoire is explored. One or more concert performances are given. Classical and contemporary choir and/or band, and orchestra are offered on rotation.



Course Learning Outcomes / Objectives


Upon completion of this course a student will be able to:



With assistance, prepare prior to first rehearsal personal instrumental or vocal parts from the conducted ensemble repertoire.

Contribute as a leader to a finished concert performance by a conducted ensemble.

Appropriately modify own personal performance technique in accordance with indications and instructions given by a conductor.

Consistently use, responding to feedback from the conductor, a performance technique grounded in current understandings of performance health.


Key Competencies


A strong passion for, and a demonstrated knowledge of, a broad range of choral music at a professional level. Inspiring choral leadership skills, able to work with singers and potential soloists with a wide variety of vocal and musical skills. A demonstrated ability to plan exciting and innovative concert programs within the scope of the choir's abilities, that inform students and audiences and create memorable musical experiences. Outstanding musicianship, including the ability to transcribe songs into SATB choral arrangements (if required). The ability to lead a resident performance accompanist (if required). Strong rehearsal and time-management skills. Ability to work with students who may have accommodations through Camosun College.



Specific Tasks and Responsibilities


Working in a manner consistent with the VCM's mandated values and best teaching practices. Working with the VCM Postsecondary Student Information Program Assistant and VCM Studio and Bookings to book the Fall term-end and Winter term-end concert showcases. Fall term runs from September until mid-December, and the Winter term runs from January until the middle of April. Concerts are typically in the first week of December and April. Extra concerts may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Selecting the Chorale's repertoire of 7-9 songs each term Fall and Winter. Conducting two 1.5 hour rehearsals each week, 14 weeks per term Fall and Winter. Holding two term-end concerts each academic year Fall and Winter. Holding soloist tryouts (if required), and selecting required soloists and small groups from among the Chorale. Coordinating with the Postsecondary Student Information Program Assistant, a resident accompanist, if required, and working with them on the interpretation and timing of the music. Coordinating with the Postsecondary Student Information Program Assistant occasional access to Alix Goolden Hall for rehearsals, including dress rehearsal. Conducting the dress rehearsal (soundcheck) and concert with the Chorale on the day of the concert. Lead and/or assist in organizing special additional Chorale initiatives from time to time (i.e. seniors residence performances). Pursue ongoing professional development and training through VCM Dean's officesupport and ProD resources (if available). IMPORTANT: Assessing individual student achievement at term-end and providing the Postsecondary Director a mark out of 100 for each student after the term-end concert.



Communications and Event Support


Coordinating with the Postsecondary Student Information Program Assistant the booking of a recording technician. Coordinating with the Postsecondary Student Information Program Assistant arranging any special staging/lighting requirements for the concert event.



Behavioural


Demonstrates personal and professional integrity, including commitment to the principles of equity, inclusion and diversity. Expresses high energy, positive attitude, flexibility, teamwork, and attention to detail. Highly self-motivated, organized and able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced work environment. Always interacts with students, staff and faculty in a considerate, professional, and respectful manner.

The VCM sincerely thanks all applicants for their submissions, however only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.