ASSISTANT ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Purpose of the role

The role of Assistant Artistic Director is a new musical leadership opportunity supporting the growth and evolution of The Isabel Voices (TIV). TIV is a vocal ensemble that has become a cornerstone of Kingston’s cultural scene under the dynamic leadership of Artistic Director Darrell Christie. 

The incoming Assistant Artistic Director will not only strengthen the mission, vision, and operational capacity of TIV, but will benefit from a unique opportunity for experiential learning and development of their musical leadership skills. 

Darrell Christie has served as Director of Choral Music at Queen’s University since 2014. His collaborative and energetic approach has inspired and developed many emerging conductors over the past decade, and he is enthusiastic about mentoring the incoming Assistant Artistic Director.  

Position overview and key responsibilities

The Assistant Artistic Director will play a crucial role in supporting the Artistic Director in all musical leadership aspects of TIV. This includes, but is not limited to assisting with:

  • Auditioning new members

  • Helping to assign solos

  • Assisting with repertoire selection for the next season

  • Acquiring and preparing scores

  • Leading vocal warmups at the beginning of practices

  • Conducting selected repertoire throughout the season in performances

  • Attending all rehearsals (for both the large and small ensembles)


Skills and experience required for success in this role

  • BA or Advanced Degree in Music with an emphasis in conducting, or equivalent conducting experience (minimum 2-3 years)

  • Experience and success in conducting an ensemble

  • Extensive experience in ensemble music-making

  • Knowledge of ensemble vocal techniques

  • Strong communication and leadership skills

Benefits acquired through this role

  • Build connections and relationships with a diverse and highly engaged group of singers

  • Gain leadership, communication, and conducting experience in a large group setting

  • Perform as a conductor in a world-class concert venue

  • Receive personalized training and mentoring to advance a career in conducting and musical leadership

  • Receive a $5,000 honorarium (to be paid in stipends over the course of the position)

  • Be recognized as Assistant Artistic Director on TIV’s website and in concert programs

Term length and commitment details

  • Eight-month term (September 1, 2025 - April 30, 2026); renewable upon successful completion of the term

  • Approximately eight hours per week

Contacts for support and supervision

  • The Assistant Artistic Director will work under the supervision of the Artistic Director, and will report to the TIV Board of Directors

  • Darrell Christie, TIV Artistic Director – darrell@isabelvoices.ca 

  • Dianna Bristol, Chair, TIV Board of Directors – dianna@isabelvoices.ca 

How to apply

Applicants must submit the following to apply@isabelvoices.ca:

  • Cover letter detailing your interest in this position

  • Resume

  • Video(s) demonstrating conducting technique (10-15 minutes total, provided as a link)

  • Two letters of professional or academic reference that speak to your conducting experience

Applications will be accepted up until 5:00 p.m. on May 30, 2025. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged by email. Applicants moving to the next stage of consideration will be invited to an in-person interview with the Artistic Director and hiring committee in Kingston, ON, to take place in July.