Music & Artistic Director Wanted
Over the past 30 years, Bach Musica NZ has grown to become New Zealand’s leading combined vocal and choral ensemble. An opportunity has now arisen to join us as Music & Artistic Director to shape the future of classical performance in Auckland.
The Music & Artistic Director is responsible for determining the overall vision, musical strategy and direction, and leading the choir and orchestra at Bach Musica NZ’s performances in the Auckland Town Hall. Key responsibilities include running rehearsals and conducting concerts, selecting soloists, inviting and auditioning players and singers and leading the team of deputy music directors and rehearsal pianists that support the ensemble. Our Music & Artistic Director also plays a central role in fundraising, attracting and retaining audiences, subscribers and donors/supporters.
Applicants should indicate how they would fulfil the following requirements:
- Conducting orchestral and choral performances
- Running choir and orchestral rehearsal in the lead up to our concerts
- Vocal and musical coaching to achieve the desired performance style
- Running annual workshops (singing, sightreading and conducting)
- Selection of the annual concert repertoire
We are seeking someone with the enthusiasm, drive, passion, energy and resilience to inspire musicians and audiences and successfully meet the administrative demands of leading a large arts and culture organization. Our concert schedule for 2026 includes four performances in the Auckland Town Hall.
The closing date for applications is Friday 18 July 2025, and shortlisted candidates will be asked to attend a rehearsal in Auckland in early to mid-August 2025.
Please reply via email to admin@bachmusica.com, with a CV of no more than 3 pages including references, and (if available) a video of you conducting both orchestra and choir.
Choristers
Bach Musica rehearses in the Somervell Presbyterian Church, corner of Remuera and Greenlane Roads in Remuera, Auckland. We perform in four concerts in the Auckland Town Hall annually, singing a wide range of repertoire including two world premieres in 2025. You can see the concert schedule here.
If you are interested in joining, we welcome you to come along to one of our rehearsals (see the schedule below) and sing with us or just listen (whichever you prefer). If you enjoy the rehearsal then you can audition on the following Tuesday.
For the audition we ask you to prepare an easy piece of music you are familiar with (song, aria). Please bring a copy for our pianist. You will also be asked to repeat some easy vocal exercises and to sight-read a Bach Chorale (no text required).
Email admin@bachmusica.com for more information