2010 Standard Repertoire Staff Opportunities

For the first time, dell'Arte will be accepting applications for internships/apprenticeships and employment with the company for the summer season.  Compensation is modest, and dependent on experience within the field.  Positions for which we are accepting letters of application are as follows:

Stage DirectorS (3 modestly paid positions)
Enthusiastic, positive, organized candidates will have a chance to create a black-box style production in modern dress and stage it with talented singers.  Directing experience, preferably in opera, is a must.

Chorus master (paid or internship position)
The successful candidate will have choral conducting experience (opera experience a bonus), excellent rehearsal skills, solid proficiency in Italian and German diction and ability to motivate young singers and foster enthusiasm and pride in craft.

Rehearsal/performance pianists (4 paid positions, 1 for each show plus chorus pianist)
Depending on experience, one or more of these positions may be at the apprentice level, but professional level candidates are sought for the three main positions. Candidates will have excellent aptitude for playing orchestral reductions, ability to work with a conductor, possess a friendly, easy-going attitude, and enthusiasm for the repertoire.  At least some opera experience is a must.  If an apprentice pianist is selected, he/she will receive valuable guidance in the realization of orchestral reductions, and will be able to observe significant amounts of coaching.

Guest conductors (1 or 2 modestly paid positions)
Only conductors with extensive opera experience should apply.  Requirements: residency in New York for two weeks (during which time neither housing nor meals are compensated); positive, supportive attitude; knowledge of linguistic and dramatic (in addition to musical) aspects of opera.  Since this is essentially a teaching program, an understanding and appreciation for young singers and their process is the primary requirement.

Assistant conductors (up to 3 unpaid apprentice positions)
Candidates will have conducting experience, though not necessarily in opera.  Those chosen will have modest opportunities to conduct during staging rehearsals, and if qualified, will serve as cover conductor in case of illness of the conductor.  Other duties such as supertitle operator may also be assigned as appropriate.  If qualified, pianist duties, may be assigned and compensated.

Production assistantS(1 or 2 apprentice positions)
Production assistants may, depending upon qualifications, assist with scheduling and other organizational office duties, run supertitles, serve as stage manager or house management liason, assist with advertising, run the lighting board, etc.  Candidates may have a wide range of skills, or simply be interested in learning more about opera production.

Pr (Public relations) assistant (1 apprentice position)
PR assistant may, depending upon interest and qualifications, write or help write press releases, create other PR materials (posters, brochures), serve as the company liason with house management, etc.  Writing and/or graphics skills a must.

Application process
Candidates for all the above positions should submit a letter outlining their interest, a resume, and 2 or 3 references that we can contact.  Interviews for qualified candidates will be scheduled as applications are received, and positions will likely be filled by April 1.  Previous employees of dell'Arte need only send a letter of interest to be considered.  Please, no e-mail submissions.

Applications should be sent via US mail to:
Christopher Fecteau, Artistic Director
dell'Arte Opera Ensemble
P.O. Box 4526
Grand Central Station
New York, NY 10163