Job Board

ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR/SISTEMA MUSIC DIRECTOR

Reports to:  Executive Director & Music Director
Location:     Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Term:            2 years (with potential for extension)
Salary:          $55,000 annually
Start Date:   27/28 Season, with potential for select opportunities through the 26/27 season.

Since its 1948 debut, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) has been a powerhouse. The WSO regularly surprises concertgoers, guest conductors and artists with the exceptional musicianship of its members. The WSO is an integral part of Winnipeg’s rich cultural life. Each year, the orchestra delights music lovers with innovative programming and musical excellence.  The WSO also presents educational programs and tours regularly across Manitoba and Canada.

In 2011, the WSO founded Sistema Winnipeg, based on the famous Venezuelan El Sistema program for at-risk children, in partnership with two Winnipeg school divisions. Over 40,000 students attend orchestra concerts presented by the WSO each season and its innovative pops
and film programs serve a rapidly growing audience. The WSO functions as the official orchestra of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Manitoba Opera Association.

The Role:
Under the guidance of Music Director Daniel Raiskin, and with regular feedback from the WSO musicians, this is a mentorship position for a promising conductor. This role encompasses not only conducting duties, but also outreach in the community, conducts the University of Manitoba Symphony Orchestra (UMSO), and serves as the Music Director of Sistema Winnipeg.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:
1. Rehearse and conduct the WSO in selected Education, Community, “Live at the WSO” and Specials programs.
2. Prepare scores for all WSO programs, attend all rehearsals and assist conductors, and serve as cover conductor for all Classic Concerts and other concerts as scheduled.
3. Assist in determining repertoire and soloists for concert programs as required.
4. Attend programming meetings and artistic discussions as deemed appropriate.
5. Act as Music Director for Sistema Winnipeg and Conductor for the University of Manitoba Symphony Orchestra.
6. Represent and promote the WSO, Sistema Winnipeg, and UMSO via media, social media, and public relations opportunities.

Qualifications:
1. Experience conducting a professional orchestra, and orchestral education programs and concerts.
2. Knowledge of orchestral repertoire including classical, contemporary, and Canadian composers.
3. Experience working with children and/or youth in an educational, arts, or community setting.
4. Demonstrated rehearsal skills as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to connect with musicians, administration, youth, audiences, and patrons.
5. Have an advanced degree in conducting or equivalent experience.
6. Fluency in French considered an asset.

Requirements:
1. Applicants must be a Canadian citizen, Permanent resident, or legally eligible to work in Canada.
2. Must reside in Winnipeg, Manitoba over course of term.

Why work at the WSO: Full-time (FT) employees start with three weeks of vacation, and after three (3) months of employment, FT employees enjoy a comprehensive group benefit plan including extended health and dental coverage, and an RRSP matching program of up to 6%.

HOW TO APPLY:
Applicants must submit the following as part of their application:
1. CV, including your training and educational background, experience in conducting, and experience working with young artists.
2. Short video, no more than two minutes in length, expressing interest, musical and conducting experience, and career aspirations.
3. Complete list of repertoire including performance history.
4. Two or more conducting videos of contrasting styles, including standard repertoire, with an orchestra or chamber ensemble, recorded from the orchestra’s perspective.
Inclusion of rehearsal footage is an asset. Submissions limited to a maximum of 15 minutes total, with clear indication for segments.
5. One (1) letter of recommendation and three (3) additional references.
6. Proof of Canadian citizenship, permanent resident status, or eligibility to legally work in Canada.

Please submit applications to careers@wso.mb.ca by Monday, September 7, 2026. The WSO welcomes all qualified applicants and highly values inclusion, diversity, and equity. Disability accommodation is available upon request.  Candidates selected for an audition will be notified by September 30, 2026.

AUDITION PROCESS
Live auditions and interviews will be held the week of October 25th, 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Invitations will be sent to select finalists. Travel and accommodation support will be provided for finalists. At the time of invitation, finalists will be provided with a list of repertoire
and the details and expectations for the audition.

We thank you for your interest in the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra.  Please note only successful candidates will be contacted.