ABOUT THE POSITION:
We are seeking a talented, experienced, and dedicated Musical Director to join our production team for Chicago: Teen Edition. The ideal candidate will have a strong musical background, excellent piano and keyboard skills, the ability to sight-read music, and experience conducting a live orchestra or pit ensemble.
The Musical Director will collaborate with the director, choreographer, cast, and production team to bring this exciting musical theatre production to life. The successful candidate will help prepare student performers for rehearsals and performances while maintaining the musical integrity, style, and energy of the show.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Play piano and/or keyboard confidently during rehearsals and performances as needed.
Sight-read musical scores and vocal parts efficiently.
Teach vocal music, harmonies, rhythms, phrasing, and musical interpretation to student performers.
Lead vocal rehearsals and work with soloists, small groups, and the full ensemble.
Prepare and rehearse the cast using the show's official musical score and materials.
Conduct the orchestra or pit ensemble during performances.
Coordinate with instrumental musicians to ensure musical consistency, timing, tempo, and transitions.
Collaborate with the director and choreographer to integrate music, dialogue, and choreography.
Attend scheduled rehearsals, orchestra rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.
Support a positive, professional, and collaborative rehearsal environment for young performers.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Candidates must possess the following skills:
Advanced piano and/or keyboard proficiency.
Strong sight-reading skills with the ability to read and interpret a musical theatre score.
Experience conducting an orchestra, pit orchestra, or instrumental ensemble.
Strong knowledge of vocal music, harmonies, rhythm, tempo, and musical phrasing.
Previous experience as a musical director, accompanist, vocal coach, or theatre musician.
Ability to communicate effectively with teenage performers and collaborate with a production team.
Reliability, professionalism, organization, and a commitment to musical excellence.
Experience with Broadway musicals, school productions, community theatre, or youth theatre programs is highly desirable.
IDEAL CANDIDATE:
We are looking for someone who is passionate about musical theatre, understands the demands of a live theatrical production, and can help young performers develop their musical skills and confidence. Familiarity with the jazz, vaudeville, and theatrical musical styles associated with Chicago is a plus.
HOW TO APPLY:
Interested candidates should respond to this posting with the following:
A résumé outlining relevant musical and theatrical experience.
A brief description of piano/keyboard proficiency and sight-reading experience.
Details of previous conducting experience, including orchestras, pit ensembles, or theatrical productions.
References from previous theatre, school, or musical collaborators, if available.
Availability for rehearsals and performances.
Please include “Musical Director – Chicago: Teen Edition” in the subject line of your response.
Qualified candidates may be invited to an interview and a brief musical skills assessment, which may include piano accompaniment, sight-reading, and conducting experience.
We look forward to finding a talented musical professional who will help make this production an outstanding theatrical experience!
Equal Opportunity: All qualified applicants will be considered based on their relevant skills, experience, and ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the position.