Senior Director of Artistic Planning - St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

REPORTS TO: Chief Operating Officer 

DIRECT REPORTS: Artistic Administrator, Librarians, Assistant Conductor, Symphony Chorus Manager, and Manager, IN UNISON Programs 

POSITION SUMMARY: The Senior Director of Artistic Planning (SDAP), supports the artistic quality and aspirations of the SLSO and the artistic vision of Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director. As a key collaborator of the Music Director, COO, and CEO, the SDAP is responsible for programming and administration of all SLSO artistic programs. The ideal candidate is passionate, creative, knowledgeable, fast-paced, and a self-starter with superb artistic intuition and connections, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track-record of effective and successful management of multiple projects simultaneously. The ability to inspire and empower collaborators both internally and externally, as well as firmly held values for and understanding of the importance of diversity and equity in the orchestral field is essential. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Plan all SLSO programs and engagement of guest conductors and artists in alignment with the Music Director’s artistic vision and within approved financial parameters. Develop and execute SLSO’s commissioning, media, residency, and touring strategies. 

• Create engaging, relevant, and artistically significant programming for the SLSO in collaboration with the Music Director and in consultation with the CEO and COO; work closely with staff conductors and musicians, artists-in-residence, choral directors, and guest artists to deploy the finest experiences for the SLSO, its two choruses, and its audiences. 

• Develop concert programs that stretch the musical boundaries of the SLSO while supporting revenue goals and audience development objectives; including but not limited to, classical subscription series, “SLSO presents” (Live at Powell Hall), media and recording projects, holiday programs, special concerts, residencies, and tours. Maximize artistic goals in alignment with SLSO’s strategic plan while balancing budgetary parameters. 

• Cultivate a compelling and diverse array of guest artists, conductors, and repertoire across all programming, ensuring that the SLSO is well known for its artistic profile and as a destination for guest artists. Nurture deep relationships with agents, artists, publishers, and artistic partners. 

• Supervise SLSO artist servicing in coordination with the Production/Operations teams. 

• Inform and ensure accuracy of artistic budget, and oversee contract negotiation, administration, and expense tracking for all SLSO artistic programs. 

• Supervise SLSO’s Artistic Administrator in the planning of all programming, including the Classical series, the Pulitzer series, Forest Park, holiday programming, and other special event concerts and initiatives. 

• Support programming needs and guidance for education programs, community partnership endeavors, and the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra. 

• Serve as staff liaison to the Artistic Advisory Committee of the Orchestra. 

• Inform and support Marketing and Philanthropic department efforts to promote and support all SLSO programs. 

• Support and participate in rehearsal and performance operations related to guest artists and conductors, including hospitality and special events. 

• Support and facilitate guest artist appearances to benefit institutional goals, when required, in other areas such as philanthropy, marketing, learning and community engagement; ensuring these engagements are part of contractual agreements 

REQUIREMENTS: 

• Passion for and deep knowledge of orchestral music, artists, and the symphonic industry. 

• Enthusiasm for and interest in a broad array of musical styles, genres, and repertoire. 

• Extensive knowledge of orchestral, operatic, and chamber repertoires. An advanced degree in music performance or music history desirable. 

• 5 years of artistic planning and programming experience exemplifying a proven track-record of artistic quality, creativity, and innovation, preferably in an orchestral setting. 

• Proven negotiation and contract administration skills. 

• Well-developed critical thinking, communication, problem solving, research, and strategic planning skills. 

• A team-oriented, inclusive, consistently positive, collaborative, professional demeanor, and demonstrated leadership skills. 

• Ability to develop and sustain collaborative, productive, and professional relationships with internal and external colleagues and artists. 

• Proven experience working regularly with artists and a current network of international and domestic artists and industry contacts. 

• Technological proficiency is a must, including the ability to quickly learn and utilize new software applications; experience with ArtsVision a plus. 

• Attention to detail and strong written communication with demonstrated ability to execute multiple plans effectively simultaneously and on-time in a fast-paced environment. 

• Highly driven and proactive working style. 

• Ability to work nights and weekends required. 

• Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and a good driving record. 

About the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

Celebrated as one of today’s most exciting and enduring orchestras, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is the second-oldest orchestra in the country, marking its 144th year with the 2023/2024 season and its fifth with Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director. Widely considered one of the leading American orchestras, the Grammy® Award-winning SLSO maintains its commitment to artistic excellence, educational impact, and community collaborations—all in service to its mission of enriching lives through the power of music. 

The core of the SLSO’s artistic foundation is its dynamic partnership with Denève, whose energetic musicianship, visionary storytelling, and collaborative spirit have created stronger connections with local and visiting artists, as well as advanced the SLSO’s role as a leader in music education. The SLSO musical family also includes two resident choruses: the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, founded in 1976, performs choral-orchestral music from the Baroque era to today; and the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON Chorus, founded in 1994, focuses on the performance and preservation of music from the African diaspora. The St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra, founded by Conductor Laureate Leonard Slatkin in 1970, is the region’s premiere training orchestra for high school and college students.

In March 2023, the SLSO broke ground on a 65,000-square foot expansion and renovation of the orchestra’s home, Powell Hall—the first major renovation project at the historic Grand Center building since it became the SLSO's permanent home in 1968. Led by the internationally acclaimed architecture firm Snøhetta, the project will transform the audience and artistic experience while protecting Powell Hall's historic character and celebrated acoustics, creating a state-of-the art center for community, innovation, and powerful music experiences. While construction is underway, the SLSO will perform throughout the community. The revitalized Powell Hall will open in 2025 to coincide with the building's centennial.

An integral part of the vibrant St. Louis community, the SLSO enjoys a long history of robust and enduring artistic collaborations with individuals and organizations locally and around the world. Orchestra musicians share dozens of education and community performances throughout the region each year at medical facilities, places of worship, community centers, and schools. For 20 years, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra: Live at the Pulitzerseries has highlighted today’s leading musical voices through innovative performances in collaboration with, and reaction to the exhibitions at, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. The SLSO has served as the resident orchestra for Opera Theatre of Saint Louis for more than 45 years. The orchestra also continues to foster new artistic collaborations, including a chamber music collaboration with The Sheldon in 2023/2024, as well as regular partnerships with The Muny, The Big Muddy Dance Company, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and others. Beyond the St. Louis region, the SLSO's impact is realized through Saturday night concert broadcasts on St. Louis Public Radio and Classic 107.3, acclaimed recordings, regular touring activity, and a digital portfolio that includes a robust online education platform with curriculum materials, interactive programs, activities, and learning opportunities for all ages.

Since the arrival of Marie-Hélène Bernard as President and CEO in 2015, the SLSO has aligned its mission to make music more accessible, while fostering a culture welcoming to all. Building on its momentum, the SLSO serves as a convener of individuals, creators, and ideas, and is committed to building community through compelling and inclusive musical experiences. As it continues its longstanding focus on equity, diversity, inclusion, and access, the SLSO embraces its strengths as a responsive, nimble organization, while investing in partnerships locally and elevating its presence globally. For more information, visit slso.org.