Artistic Director Search

Houston Chamber Ringers handbell ensemble is searching for a new Artistic Director. Our former director, Stevie Berryman, founding member and AD for the past 13 years has relocated to a teaching position at Trinity University.

HCR is an auditioned and professional handbell ensemble who entertains, educates, and performs with passion, dedication and artistry.

HCR is Artist-in-Residence at Lone Star College Tomball (LSCT). We rehearse in the music building, and our concerts are mostly held on campus in their gorgeous Performing Arts Center.

HCR places a strong emphasis on education. We have a 501(c)3 program backed by grants and donations that have allowed us to plant handbell ensembles in Tomball I.S.D. elementary schools. We provided 3 octaves of bells, curriculum, equipment, and 16+ weeks of instruction. This year we will start a junior high club and plan to continue growing the program through all levels including at LSCT with hopes to bring honor handbell choirs to the state of Texas.

We hold an annual 8 week Master Class course to provide handbell instruction to area ringers. We have a beginning level course and a course for experienced ringers seeking to improve their skills. The class is organized, taught, and promoted by members including the AD.

HCR has twice been the featured performer at Pinnacle. We are frequent performers at Festival Hill and played in a concert series with Turtle Creek Chorale in Dallas.

Position Overview

The AD is responsible for the artistic leadership of the ensemble and for fostering musical excellence through visionary programming, pedagogical experience, inspiring performances, and community collaborations.

Job Description

Determine artistic vision, direction, and group identity
Plan concerts and appearances
Select music and supervise its purchase, composition, or arranging
Select musicians for membership
Recruit new talent
Address any personnel problems or interpersonal conflicts
Be the HCR brand ambassador to our audience in person and online
Liaise with handbell community
Be the spokesperson and figurehead for HCR
Create a weekly rehearsal plan in enough time for members to practice before the rehearsal
Sufficiently prepare the group to give an outstanding performance
Keep rehearsals productive, well-paced, and fun
Make ringer assignments
Recruit or hire auxiliary musicians as needed
Rehearse with and ensure that auxiliary musicians are well prepared for concerts

Essential Qualifications and Skills

Bachelor’s degree in Music, Music Education, or demonstrated mastery in handbell direction with another handbell ensemble
Previous experience directing an ensemble
Proficiency in conducting
Strong musical background with knowledge of music theory and notation
Strong background in handbell technique
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Strong organization and leadership abilities
Creative and innovative approach to programming and repertoire selection

How to Apply

Please submit a brief resume as well as any relevant portfolio materials (recordings, videos, compositions/arrangements). Email: dprihoda7946@gmail.com