Artistic Director

Job Announcement: Artistic DirectorPosted: September 8, 2026Application Deadline: November 15, 2026Target Start Date: July/August 2027Location: San Francisco Bay Area About 21VBased in the San Francisco Bay Area, 21V is an innovative select ensemble of soprano and alto voices of all gender identities dedicated to telling the stories of the 21st-century Americas. Founded by Dr. Martín Benvenuto, 21V is a catalyst for change through a new choral sound, committing to bold, contemporary repertoire and reimagining traditional performance models. Our work intentionally centers composers and voices from across the Americas, with a particular focus on those historically underrepresented in classical music. 21V’s vision is to be a "house of ideas" that opens up unexplored spaces of artistic expression, and a "house of belonging" that expands interconnectedness. For more information, please visit www.21vchoir.org. Position SummaryThe Artistic Director serves as the chief artistic leader of 21V, responsible for shaping and advancing the ensemble’s vision, programming, and broader cultural impact. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors. The role is part-time and project-based, with 21V generally presenting two artistic projects each year – one in the fall and one in the spring. Each project typically includes approximately five weeks of rehearsals and generally culminates in two performances. The schedule varies seasonally, with a greater time commitment during active rehearsal and performance cycles, including evenings and weekends. The Artistic Director works in person for rehearsals, performances, and select meetings in the Bay Area, while completing remaining administrative work and meetings remotely. Core ResponsibilitiesArtistic LeadershipProvide overall artistic vision, direction, and long-term planning for the ensembleSelect, program, and conduct all repertoire for the performance seasonRecruit, audition, and develop singers, core musicians, and guest artistsCommission new works and cultivate active relationships with composersLead all regular rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and main-stage performancesOrganizational Strategy & StewardshipPartner with the Board of Directors to align artistic vision with organizational healthParticipate actively in fundraising, donor engagement, and institutional growthDevelop an annual artistic plan to inform budgeting and operate within approvedparametersServe as the public-facing spokesperson to support marketing and audiencedevelopmentBuild collaborative relationships within local, national, and international musiccommunities Candidate Profile & QualificationsThe ideal candidate is an imaginative and collaborative artistic leader with a deep commitment to contemporary treble choral music and to the cultural breadth of the Americas. While this distinctive musical focus is our starting point, we welcome a leader who will expand our horizons and guide the ensemble toward new creative possibilities. Prior artistic leadership experience is required. The next Artistic Director will demonstrate:Artistic Excellence: Exceptional musicianship and conducting skill, with a provenability to inspire, develop, and work with professional-level singers.Innovative Programming: Curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to take artistic risks incurating compelling programs.Audience & Community Engagement: Strong interpersonal and on-stagecommunication skills to create meaningful connections with listeners and deepen21V’s relevance in the community.Equity, Inclusion & Representation: A commitment to fostering diversity, equity,inclusion, and representation within the organization and its musical output.Collaboration & Strategy: Excellent communication skills to work effectively withsingers, board members, and stakeholders, balancing artistic ambition withorganizational sustainability. CompensationCompensation is competitive and commensurate with experience, reflecting the part-time scope of the role, and its seasonal, project-based structure. Application ProcessReview of applications will begin immediately upon receipt. To apply, please submit the following materials via email to info@21vchoir.org with the subject line format "21V AD Search [Your Last Name]":Cover Letter detailing your interest in the role, your vision for 21V, and how you would approach building audiencesCurrent Résumé / CV highlighting relevant choral leadership experienceVideo links from 2–3 recent performances or rehearsals (up to 10 minutes total, conductor's point of view preferred)Contact information for 2–3 professional references, who will not be reached without prior notification to the candidate Please note: Finalists will be required to conduct a live audition with the ensemble in the Bay Area in March 2027. The appointed candidate will be subject to a standard background check prior to formal hire. 21V is an open, inclusive, and welcoming organization. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.