Bel Canto Youth Chorus seeks Preparatory Chorus Conductor

The Bel Canto Youth Chorus of the Bach Choir of Bethlehem seeks a dynamic, creative conductor for its Preparatory Chorus. This ensemble serves children in grades 2 – 5 from across the Lehigh Valley and meets Monday evenings for 90-minute rehearsals. Additional rehearsals include two days of summer camp, typically in the middle week of August. The ideal candidate will have certification in Orff, Kodaly, Gordon, or Conversational Solfege methodology, and/or significant experience with the child voice.

The Preparatory Chorus focuses on teaching choristers basic musicianship, healthy vocal technique appropriate for the age, in tune singing, and beginning part singing in the context of the rehearsal setting. Repertoire is inclusive of all styles and genres, providing a broad base of musical education. The Preparatory Chorus performs on our Winter and Spring concerts as well as one or two smaller performances each term.

Conductors from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Founded in 1993, The Bel Canto Youth Chorus is comprised of auditioned treble singers from the Lehigh Valley region in Southeastern Pennsylvania. The choir has developed an international reputation for performing diversified choral repertoire at the highest standard of musical excellence and style. Noted for the innovative, artistic programs it presents, the choir has been invited to perform for numerous music conferences and has toured nationally and internationally. The choir has been under the direction of Founder Joy Hirokawa from its inception. The choir has received wide recognition for its June 2022 video program, Stand Up: Singing the Underground Railroad, available on its YouTube channel.

To receive full consideration, applications should be received by August 1st. Email applications in one PDF document. Applications should include a letter of interest, resume or C. V., brief statement of your teaching philosophy with attention to diversity/equity/inclusion/access, and links to video or audio recordings of your work with children, if available.

For questions about this position and to submit an application, please email Silagh White, Administrator at .