The Meridian Symphony Orchestra invites qualified conductors to apply for the role of Artistic Director. Applications are open through October 1, 2025. Interviews will be held in October, and two finalists will be selected to audition during the season. Each finalist will program, rehearse, and conduct one subscription concert on either February 28 or May 2, 2026. A final decision will be made in June 2026.

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About the Orchestra

Founded in 1990, the Meridian Symphony Orchestra is a 70-member, all-volunteer ensemble committed to enriching the cultural life of our community through family-friendly, educational performances. Rehearsals are held Monday evenings, with dress rehearsals on concert mornings. We rehearse in local public schools and perform at the Meridian Performing Arts Center. In the 2024–2025 season, we averaged 550 attendees per concert and had one sold-out performance. Our annual budget is approximately $50,000 and we are governed by a 14-member board.

 

Role Overview

The Artistic Director reports to the Board of Directors and leads the orchestra’s artistic vision. The ideal candidate will commit to a minimum of three years, collaborate with musicians and the board, and shape each season’s programming.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide weekly rehearsal schedules in advance

• Plan and program subscription concerts

• Lead 5-7 rehearsals for each concert and add sectionals as needed

• Collaborate with section leaders for efficient rehearsals and seating

• Build working relationships with musicians, board, and audience

• Help secure additional musicians as needed

• Support strategic goals: fundraising, community outreach, partnerships

• Participate in the Young Artist Competition (late January)

• Attend board meetings

 

Qualifications

• 5+ years of conducting experience across varied repertoire

• Proven programming creativity and innovation

• Extensive musical knowledge and contextual understanding of repertoire

• Effective rehearsal leadership and communication skills

• Familiarity with all orchestral instruments

• Commitment to collaboration and organizational development

• Demonstrated success in audience building, fundraising, and community engagement

 

Compensation

The Artistic Director is paid $3,000 per concert cycle. No travel reimbursement is available for the audition or appointment period.

 

Application Instructions

Deadline: October 1, 2025.  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
 

Submit a single PDF to info@meridiansymphony.org including:

1. Cover letter with:

   • Statement of interest and fit
   • Brief bullet-point summary of relevant experience
   • Three references (preferably including a board member and a musician)
   • Link to a conducting performance video (orchestra view preferred)
   • Optional but encouraged: rehearsal video

2. Conducting CV

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Audition Process

Two finalists will be invited to program and conduct one concert during the 2025–2026 season, including programming, rehearsals, and performance on February 28 or May 2, 2026.