Director of Learning

Description

Reporting to the Vice President of Orchestra and Production, the Director of Learning is responsible for the leadership, development, and execution of all educational and instructional programs at the CSO. This role oversees a wide range of initiatives, including youth programs such as the CSO Youth Orchestras, Nouveau, and the CSO Resident Fellowship, as well as school-based programs like Young People’s Concerts, Musicians in Schools, and CSO Open Rehearsals.

The Director of Learning leads the Learning Department in creating and delivering impactful programs and activities that support the CSO’s mission and vision. In collaboration with the Vice President of Orchestra and Production, the Director will also plan, budget, implement, and evaluate departmental strategies to ensure the continued success and growth of CSO’s educational efforts.

Position Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership of Learning Programs

• Align Learning program activities with the Orchestra’s master calendar and institutional goals.
• Lead annual budget development and financial oversight for the Learning Department in coordination with finance, philanthropy, and program staff.
• Serve as the primary liaison to internal departments and Orchestra members, providing timely communication and reporting.
• Partner with Philanthropy to align fundraising priorities with program needs.
• Stay informed on innovations in music education through research, peer engagement, and attendance at local programs and Orchestra events.
• Represent the CSO Learning team at professional conferences (e.g., SphinxConnect, League of American Orchestras, Equity Arc).
• Facilitate Learning Committee meetings and support Board engagement as needed.

Youth Orchestras (CSYO)

• Provide strategic oversight of CSYO operations and logistics, led by the Youth Orchestras Manager.
• Collaborate with conductors and musicians on audition support, programming, and performances.
• Coordinate with Marketing on event promotion and logistics.

Nouveau Program

• Guide curriculum development in partnership with Chamber Coaches.
• Collaborate with the Chief Inclusion Officer on outreach and community engagement.
• Oversee recruitment, sponsor relations, and program logistics with support from the Learning Programs Coordinator.
• Maintain strong communication with student families and community partners.

Resident Fellowship

• Partner with the Director of Orchestra Personnel to manage application, audition and recruitment processes.
• Support Fellows’ professional development through individualized Career Development Plans, conference participation, and festival applications.
• Serve as a key contact for Fellows throughout their season-long experience.

Contribute to the CSO’s vision to be the most relevant orchestra in America.
Represent the organization’s values in your work.
Perform other duties as assigned. 

Direct Reports: Learning Programs Manager, Learning Coordinator, Youth Orchestras Manager, Learning Intern

Requirements

• Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree in music education or arts management with instructional experience, or combination of professional work experiences, relevant skills and education. 
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, think critically, analyze complex issues, and communicate effectively in both written and verbal forms.
• Proven experience in team supervision and program management.
• Familiarity with orchestral repertoire and concert programming.
• Skilled in coordinating multiple, diverse programs with a focus on artistic and educational excellence, while effectively engaging a range of stakeholders including internal teams, schools, musicians, donors, and community partners.