Orchestral & Stage Management Volunteer Program: Penrith Youth Orchestra

A partnership with Penrith Conservatorium, Penrith Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

 ORCHESTRAL & STAGE MANAGEMENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Penrith Youth Orchestra is thrilled to introduce a number of volunteer opportunities to support this valuable orchestral program located at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre.

The volunteer program is centred around Sunday workshops held over 3 consecutive Sundays each school term including two public and two-family concert performances on the final Sundays. It kicks off the year with a structured intensive academy program held over one full weekend with the Australian Chamber Orchestra in March (Friday, Saturday and Sunday).

Several positions exist:

• ON THE DAY ASSISTANT – up to five positions.
  Duties to include assistance with set up and pack up, message running and student oversight and assisting in the smooth operations of the day. Volunteers may be available on occasional Sundays or for part of the day only.
• ORCHESTRAL MANAGEMENT SUPPORT – up to two positions.
  This role is framed as an internship to provide hands-on industry experience for someone wishing to enter the field, studying, or considering studying arts management of music at a tertiary level. It offers the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of project management and all that goes on behind the scenes to bring an orchestra together. This role requires greater commitment and would suit someone with an understanding of music and an interest in arts management.

Tasks include (but not limited to):

• Administrative work
• Engaging with artists and conductors
• Building rehearsal and performance schedules
• Venue liaison and bookings
• Management of orchestra set-up and pack-up
• Organising music hire and preparation and distribution of parts
• Management of orchestra plans and seating
• Overseeing lighting / sound and staging requirements for rehearsals and performances

A six-week period each term (from Term 2) is required, and preference will be given to those able to volunteer during the academy period to provide operational context. Through this volunteer role, you will learn the essentials of stage management, foresight and planning, and put your new skills to the test as you help manage rehearsals and the performances scheduled for each respective term, having supported the PYO Academy weekend in Term 1.

You will need to be available between 20 and 40 hours per term to undertake the opportunity with the role being a mixture of pre- and post- administrative work in the lead up, during and after the rehearsals / performance events scheduled, as well as hands-on involvement during the events themselves.

A minimum commitment period of at least one term is required, with the preference to continue on for one year.

A small honorarium to cover expenses is available.

All PYO activities are held at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith. Some tasks may be performed remotely as negotiated with Conservatorium staff.

All volunteers must:

• Have or obtain a Working with Children Check clearance
• Be willing and able to comply with PP&VA’s current Covid Safety Plan
• Be able to take instruction and attend an induction session prior to their first shift

A First Aid Certificate is welcome but not essential.

To be eligible for the Orchestral & Stage Management volunteer positions, applicants must:

• Be between 18 – 26 inclusive as of 1 January 2021
• Commit for a least one term, preference will be given to those who can commit to the full year
• Be available during the PYO rehearsal dates / times respective to the term(s) engaged (see schedule)

PYO Rehearsals and Performance Schedule:

How to Apply:

ON THE DAY ASSISTANT

Click here to apply for On The Day Assistant position 

ORCHESTRAL MANAGEMENT SUPPORT

Please send an email to pyo@penrith.city with the following information to apply:

• One Page Written Statement
  Tell us about your aspirations within the field of orchestral management, and your reasons for applying to the program.
• Curriculum Vitae
  Your CV should include your educational background, musical background, employment and any previous experience in the area of arts administration or orchestral management.
• Any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.

Applications Close: 5pm, Monday 15 February 2021

Please note, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

If you have any questions, please contact Brian Kjim at brian.kjim@penrith.city or call (02) 4732 8686