Job Opportunity: Director of Education

Position Summary:

The Director of Education is responsible for conceiving, executing, and overseeing all of Art Song Chicago’s educational programming. This includes masterclasses, workshops, and the Vocal Chamber Music Fellowship. We’re looking to find a skilled collaborative pianist and vocal coach, who has a deep knowledge of art song and excellent interpretive skills when it comes to language and diction. Our Director of Education will serve as a mentor to young artists, a liaison to partner institutions, and a strategic partner in the growth of Art Song Chicago’s educational mission.

Key Responsibilities

Master classes & Workshops:

  • Develop annual themes or topics in alignment with the organization's mission

  • Identify and secure master teachers, guest artists, venues, and pianists

  • Coordinate participant lists and event logistics

  • Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Operations on publicity

Vocal Chamber Music Fellowship:

  • Organize and define an annual fellowship opportunity for 1-2 artists, working with selected artists to present a recital project by end of season

  • Review all applications materials, schedule auditions, and select participating artists

  • Recruit artists and audience to attend public performances - and apply for future opportunities

  • Provide regular coaching sessions focused on repertoire, interpretation, and language/diction

  • Attend and host all Fellowship events, welcoming guests before and after performances

  • Collaborate with the Executive Director to plan long-term strategy and future partnerships

Partnerships & Logistics:

  • Act as a liaison to partner institutions and organizations on all matters related to education, working collaboratively with the Executive Director and Director of Marketing and Operations

  • Collaborate with Director of Marketing and Operations on execution of partnership marketing and communications needs

Financial Oversight:

  • Contribute to the creation of the education budget section in coordination with the Executive Director

Grant Writing & Fundraising:

  • Identify education-related funding opportunities in collaboration with the Executive Director and Board of Directors

  • Assist with developing and finalizing grant proposals

  • Support donor cultivation efforts related to educational programs

Board Relations:

  • Attend board meetings and present regular updates on educational programs, strategy, and impact

Oversight:

  • Supervise the Vocal Chamber Music Fellow(s), supporting their development and experience throughout the season

Qualifications:

  • Accomplished collaborative pianist and vocal coach with deep knowledge of art song repertoire and performance practice

  • Experience working with young/emerging artists and leading educational programming or fellowships

  • Excellent language and diction skills, particularly in English, French, German, and Italian art song

  • Strong organizational and leadership abilities; capable of managing multiple projects with attention to detail

  • Skilled communicator, comfortable liaising with artistic partners, administrative staff, and board members

  • Experience in grant writing and donor relations is a plus

Commitment:

This is a part-time, flexible position averaging 5–10 hours per month, with seasonal fluctuations based on the programming calendar. Attendance is expected for all VCMF events and scheduled board meetings (virtual or in-person).

Annual Stipend: $3,500

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, cover letter, two references and two video recordings (one of you in performance and one leading a coaching or lesson) to song@artsongchicago.org by October 15th.

Due to the limitations of our staff, we will not be able to provide updates on our screening process.