The Bellingham Symphony Orchestra is an enthusiastic and thriving community-based orchestra that features an extraordinary level of talent in its ~80 players, and attracts soloists of international stature such as Gil Shaham, Jennifer Koh, Anthony McGill, and James Ehnes. It is financially stable, with healthy reserves and an annual operating budget of ~$600,000. The BSO is the resident orchestra of the historic Mt. Baker Theatre in Bellingham, WA.
Bellingham is located between the Vancouver B.C. and Seattle metropolitan areas, nestled on the shores of Puget Sound and in the shadow of majestic Mt. Baker. It offers a rich variety of recreational, cultural, and educational activities, as well as natural beauty and exceptional schools. Bellingham regularly tops lists of “Best Places to Live,” and is ranked the second best arts community in the country (based on the number of active arts businesses per capita).
The upcoming season will be the 47th for the orchestra, and the 9th with Yaniv Attar as Music Director. Juilliard-trained, Attar is beloved by audiences and players alike for his engaging podium style and programming that honors the classical canon while celebrating contemporary works and commissioned pieces. The 2022-23 season also features the eighth year of the Harmony from Discord program, honoring the works of those who composed in the face of oppression, and celebrating the power of music to overcome adversity. The BSO has a robust Youth & Community Engagement program with more than 60 chamber and solo music performances outside of the concert hall each season and the Bellingham Youth Chamber Players program. More information about the BSO can be found at www.bellinghamsymphony.org/about-us-home.
The Executive Director is the chief administrative officer, reporting to the Board of Directors through its president and collaborating closely with the Music Director. This position is an essential part of the organization’s leadership team, ensuring the BSO meets its mission, vision, and strategic goals while maintaining financial sustainability. The organization seeks a dynamic leader who is skilled at working with diverse groups, well-versed in classical music and arts leadership, and comfortable supervising staff both in person and remotely.
Organizational leadership, human resources, supervision, financial management, contract negotiations, resource development and fundraising, artistic planning, relationship building and stewardship, public speaking and presentations, community and public relations, and other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors.
Please submit the following:
This is a full-time, exempt position. Starting salary range is $72,000 - 82,000, commensurate with experience. Professional references will be required upon request.
Materials may be sent either by postal mail or email to the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra at:
PO Box 5892, Bellingham, WA 98227-5892 | Jobs@bellinghamsymphony.org
No phone calls, please.
Applications will be reviewed and interviews scheduled on an ongoing basis.