Description
The GRAMMY-award-winning Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus (BPC), Western New York’s premier symphonic chorus, is seeking candidates to serve as our next Music Director.
This is a rare opportunity to lead one of the region’s most dynamic and respected artistic institutions, shaping our sound, inspiring our singers, and engaging the community through the power of choral music.
About the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
Founded more than 85 years ago, the BPC is a 130-voice auditioned chorus dedicated to presenting choral masterworks at the highest artistic level and developing singers in the choral arts. With approximately 15-20 performances per season, the BPC serves as the primary choral partner of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, while also presenting independent concerts that showcase the breadth and vitality of the choral art form.
The BPC is supported by a professional administrative and artistic staff, a core of paid professional singers, and a dedicated volunteer board of directors, all working together to foster musical excellence and cultural enrichment across Western New York.
The Role
The Music Director is the artistic leader of the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Music Director is responsible for:
- Shaping the artistic vision and maintaining the highest standards of performance.
- Leading weekly rehearsals and conducting performances with the chorus, orchestral partners, and independent musicians.
- Overseeing auditions and the development of the Chorus, including pro-core singers and section leaders.
- Selecting and programming diverse, engaging repertoire for self-produced programs
- Collaborating closely with partners like the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra.
- Serving as a public artistic ambassador, engaging with audiences, donors, and the broader community.
- Partnering with the Board, Executive Director, and staff to ensure artistic and organizational success.
This is a visible and influential leadership role, suited to a conductor who is as passionate about musical excellence as they are about cultivating community through choral artistry.
Why Buffalo?
Buffalo is experiencing a cultural renaissance. The city boasts world-class arts institutions, a revitalized waterfront, vibrant neighborhoods, and a welcoming community. The BPC is proud to be a vital part of Buffalo’s thriving cultural landscape, featuring more than fifty choral music ensembles, a substantial community of vocal and instrumental musicians, and access to numerous world-class collegiate music programs within a 60-minute drive.
Join Us!
This is more than a conducting position — it is an opportunity to shape the future of a historic choral organization, to collaborate with world-class musicians, and to inspire audiences through the transformative power of music!
Requirements
Desired Qualifications
The ideal candidate will bring:
- A Master’s or Doctorate degree in music with advanced training in choral conducting.
- Significant experience leading symphonic choral ensembles in a professional, collegiate, or community setting.
- Demonstrated excellence in conducting, vocal pedagogy, and choral preparation of major works.
- Experience collaborating with orchestras and conducting large-scale choral-orchestral repertoire.
- Strong command of diction for Latin, German, French, and Italian repertoire.
- Exceptional organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse ensemble.
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative spirit in working with singers, staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders.
