Music Director
The music director is responsible to the director for all musical aspects of the production.
Duties:
• Collaborates with director
• Auditions the singers and may make recommendations to the director for casting
• Schedules music rehearsals with the director, choreographer and stage manager
• Teaches the cast members the show’s music
• Leads music rehearsals—principals, chorus and musicians
• Serves as the conductor, or, in consultation with the producer and director, hires the conductor
• In consultation with the producer and director, hires the rehearsal pianist and the orchestra
musicians
• Works with the sound designer
• Attends production meetings
• Attends rehearsals
Skills:
• Strong musical sense
• Strong conducting ability
• Ability to teach
• Knowledge of music styles and history
• Strong inter-personal skills
• Strong communication skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong supervisory skills
Note:
Resist the urge to direct the show. This is more difficult than it sounds because, a large portion of the show will be the music director’s to share. As a result, the music director may begin to see possibilities that lie outside the director’s interpretation. By all means, the music director may express ideas, but should be prepared to accept the director’s final word.
If the musicians working in the orchestra belong to a union, any special arrangements should be settled well in advance.
