“Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.”

CONFUCIUS

LEADERSHIP

Music Director & Conductor David Itkin

The 2022-2023 season marks Maestro David Itkin’s 18th season as Music Director and Conductor of the Abilene Philharmonic, and his 15th year serving as Professor of Music and Director of Orchestral Studies at the University of North Texas College of Music, where his recent performances have included Mahler Symphony No. 4, the Verdi Requiem, Beethoven Symphony No. 9, and Puccini’s Turandot with the UNT Grand Chorus, and Janacek’s The Cunning Little Vixen with the UNT Opera Theatre.

During the 2018-2019 season he also joined the Abilene Opera Company for Handel’s Messiah and a fully staged production of West Side Story.

2023-24 Board Of Governors and Staff

Joe Biles, 

President

 

Evan Simmons, 

President Elect

 

Gregory Straughn, 

Treasurer

 

Jill Estes Bailey, 

Secretary

Michelle Brookshire

Lydia Bundy

Chris Carnohan

Amos Davis

Harry Hurt

Bethany Ibach

Samuel Cook

Frank Johnson

Sheila Kidd

Scott Lamb

Jim Pizzorno,
Foundation President

Tyler Sitzes

Todd Wilson

George Woodward

Elizabeth Miller,
Guild President

Mandy Gollihar
Acting Executive Director
Email: mgollihar@abilenephilharmonic.org

John Franklin
Director of Operations & Orchestra Personnel Manager
Email: jfranklin@abilenephilharmonic.org

Serayah Peters
Box Office Supervisor
Email: speters@abilenephilharmonic.org

Susie Rockett
Director of Community Engagement & Education Programs
Email: srockett@abilenephilharmonic.org

CJ Johnson
Orchestra Librarian 
Email: CJJohnson@abilenephilharmonic.org

MISSION STATEMENT

THE ABILENE PHILHARMONIC ASSOCIATION UNLEASHES THE POWER OF MUSIC TO ENTERTAIN, EDUCATE, AND INSPIRE THROUGH LIVE SYMPHONIC MUSIC AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.

OUR HISTORY

Established
1950

The Abilene Philharmonic is one of Abilene’s most established performing arts organizations. Its history traces back to September 1950, when community supporters organized a musical group called the Abilene Symphony Orchestra with Jay Dietzer as its first conductor. Concerts were held in the old Abilene High School, now Lincoln Middle School.

The first program was presented December 2, 1950 with works by Beethoven, Schubert, Grieg and Wagner. Mr. Dietzer remained with the orchestra through three seasons...

Musician’s spotlight

DAVID SHEA

Clarinet

ALISON READ

Harp

MARK MORTON

Bass

Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra Auditions

The Abilene Philharmonic is a part-time per service orchestra, that is proud to employ some of the best musicians in the state of Texas. If you are interested in an audition, please review our openings and procedures.

ABILENE PHILHARMONIC GUILD

The Abilene Philharmonic Guild supports the APO through volunteering, fundraising, and friend-raising. This special group meets monthly and also coordinates the Belle and Beau usher program.

Membership to the Philharmonic Guild is $50 a year and you must have an active Philharmonic season subscription.

ABILENE PHILHARMONIC FOUNDATION

Making a difference in the lives of listeners around the Big Country

Founded by Conductor Laureate, George Yeager, the Abilene Philharmonic Foundation manages an endowment that ensures the future financial well-being of Abilene’s professional orchestra.

THE INDEPENDENT FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS IS DEDICATED TO THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPLES:

The distribution of funds is geared to perpetual support

Funds are invested conservatively and monitored for performance

Gifts support the orchestra now and in future generations

CAREERS

Our open roles

Executive Director

JOB DESCRIPTION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (ABILENE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA)


About the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra
The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra (APO), led by our Music Director Maestro David Itkin, is a professional orchestra serving musicians and music lovers in and around Abilene with seven concerts (4 Masterworks and 3 Pops) per season. Beginning in the fall, the APO celebrates its 73rd season of music-making in West Texas. We seek an innovative Executive Director to help fulfill our mission of unleashing the power of music to entertain, educate and inspire through live symphonic music and community  engagement.


About Abilene, Texas and the Surrounding Area
Abilene (population: 127,385) is experiencing substantial growth, with an eclectic mix of industries, four universities, and two colleges. Regular partnerships with Dyess Air Force Base, Hendrick Health, and generous local foundations have helped make the APO a vital presence in the community.


The cultural landscape of the community includes a number of nationally-recognized museums (The Grace Museum, National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, 12th Armored Division Museum, the Center for Contemporary Arts, and Frontier Texas) and a beautifully-restored 1930s “atmospheric” movie palace (the Historic Paramount Theatre).


Live theatrical productions (Paramount Productions, Abilene Community Theatre, touring shows, and three university theatre programs) grace Abilene stages throughout the year. Abilene also boasts a thriving live music scene, including two summer concert series (Open Road at The Grace Museum’s rooftop and Rock and Roar at our award-winning zoological park), a country music festival (Outlaws and Legends), and regular performances at venues throughout the city and county.


Additionally, Abilene has a local NPR affiliate station broadcasting news and classical music (KACU), and a number of performing arts organizations (Chorus Abilene, the Abilene Community Band, and the collegiate Civic Orchestra of Abilene) with whom the APO occasionally partners.


Abilene is the commercial and cultural anchor of a 19-county region known as “The Big Country.” For outdoor enthusiasts, three state parks and several lakes lie within an hour’s drive. Two hours to the east, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is home to five professional sports teams, a NASCAR Cup Series race, two annual PGA Tour events, nine universities, multiple art museums, and the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

 

The APO Annual Budget
Approaching $1M, our budget supports a subscription series of concerts at the Abilene Convention Center, Zoo Concerts, and cabaret-style shows at the Historic Paramount Theatre. Thanks to the work of an active, engaged, and visionary Board, the APO enjoys a uniquely firm financial standing. In 2021, the orchestra launched the Music Director’s Endowment Campaign to help secure finances into the future. Far exceeding their initial goal, the Board announced the public phase of the campaign with a more aggressive $3M goal, having already raised over two-thirds of the total.

Executive Director
The APO’s Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors and will have overall responsibility for the APO’s concert logistics, musician and volunteer coordination, community partnerships, fundraising, grant writing, and community- based marketing. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a passion for innovatively connecting the community with classical and popular music programming. APO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of candidates.

Executive Director Responsibilities

 Leadership, Operations, & Concert Execution

  1. Plan, execute and oversee logistics for all concerts, including working with Music Director, staff, Board members and volunteers.
  2. Coordinate educational, outreach, and other off-stage activities.
  3. Work with APO Personnel Manager and Music Director to manage musician matters, including auditions, scheduling, and recurring paid engagements.
  4. Oversee volunteer development, planning, and deployment in collaboration with staff.
  5. Develop and implement policies and procedures to promote organizational governance.
  6. Coordinate the operation of APO board committees.
  7. Attend all Board meetings to deliver ED report; coordinate with Executive Committee; synchronize board involvement with ongoing efforts; attend certain committee meetings where ED participation is required, including Executive Committee and Finance Committee.
  8. Track operational and leadership considerations as necessary for grants.
  9. Produce annual celebratory meeting for all APO musicians, Board, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Fundraising, Marketing, Finance, & Communications

  1. In collaboration with Treasurer and Finance/Fund Development Committees, set, monitor, and manage fundraising and budgetary goals.
  2. Source current, and create new, opportunities to generate ongoing sponsorship and donor relationships, including Abilene Gives Day.
  3. Organize and develop donor thank you messages, database, manage Bloomerang account for donor management and cultivation, and other ongoing donor maintenance efforts.
  4. Coordinate grant-writing efforts and timely preparation of all required reports, from significant funders, and new granting relationships.
  5. Develop fundraising special events and initiatives in collaboration with the Fund Development Committee.
 

Qualifications
Preference will be given for candidates with backgrounds in music, arts administration, fundraising, and/or marketing. Regardless of prior background, the characteristics we prize most are the leadership skills and collegiality required to lead our dedicated staff and collaborate with our talented Music Director and orchestra members.


The ED position reports to the Board of Directors, working alongside the Music Director, and partnering with musicians and staff, including the Operations and Orchestra Personnel Manager and Box Office Manager.


The ED is supported by part-time support staff members: Orchestra Librarian and Director of Community Engagement and Education Programs, with interns drawn  from the university community. Prior experience working with a Board of Directors and staff members is required.

Required Skills & Qualifications

  • Commitment to attend and oversee the successful operation of concerts and
    other APO activities, which mostly take place at night
  • Strong project management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple organizational priorities on time and within
    budget
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to adapt, innovate, and take a practical-visionary approach to a small
    organization’s big goals
  • Desire to promote classical music, professionalism, and pragmatism
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; a persuasive and passionate
    speaker and communicator who can tell the APO’s story to new audiences
  • Compassionate, clear management skills when working with personnel and
    volunteers
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of programs
  • Ability to use Google Docs, Sheets, and other tools for collaborative work
  • Experience with or ability to learn event ticketing software and the
    Bloomerang donor management/fundraising site

 

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

  • Financial and budgeting acumen
  • Marketing experience
  • Comprehensive fundraising strategy awareness and experience
  • Experience with operating a nonprofit arts organization (ideally orchestra)
    Compensation, Benefits, Hours, and Location
  • $55,000 – $70,000 annually (Salary is commensurate with experience,
    within the framework of the organization’s annual operating budget).
  • Additional potential for compensation to be determined based on
    fundraising success.
  • Benefits include: health insurance, paid vacation, holiday and sick leave.

How To Apply

Submit resume, cover letter, and three professional references to: edsearch@abilenephilharmonic.org and be sure to include “Executive Director” in the subject line.

Include in the cover letter the following information:
• Salary history and requirements
• How you learned of the position
• Description of how your qualifications and experience match Abilene Philharmonic’s needs.

Application Time Line:

  • For full consideration, please send materials by July 1, 2023.
  • Anticipated Start date: August 1-15, 2023.
  • Only electronic submissions will be considered. All nominations and expressions of interest will be held in the strictest confidence.

Internship-Education Programs

SUMMARY

This internship is an ideal position for those interested in exploring a position in music education within a professional symphony orchestra.  The Intern will work closely with all APO staff and provide support.  Duties include program planning, preparation, and project based work.

DUTIES

Essential Functions:

  • Assist with planning and execution of education activities.
  • Assist with setup and breakdown of Abilene Youth Orchestra rehearsals and concerts.
  • Music Librarian duties as assigned.
  • Filing and data entry.
  • Run errands.
  • Concert and event duties.

Other Functions:

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:       High school diploma or GED.

Experience:     Previous experience in an office setting preferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:   Knowledge of standard office practices.  Excellent customer service skills.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  Ability to work independently and take initiative when appropriate.  Writing/proofreading skills and an understanding of the English language (both written and oral) are required.  Ability to use standard office equipment such as copy machines, multi-line telephones, fax machines, personal computer.  Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 lbs.  Must be able to handle all aspects of position in a positive, professional, timely, and efficient manner.  Ability to interact in social settings and varied situations.  Music education background or currently studying music education preferred but not required.

Hours: 10 hours per week minimum.

Wage: Unpaid; College credit negotiable

Box Office/Admin Intern

Job Title: Internship

Reports to: Executive Director

SUMMARY
This internship is an ideal position for those interested in exploring a position in an orchestral and/or nonprofit
setting. The Intern will work closely with all APO staff and provide support. Duties include general clerical,
receptionist and project based work.

DUTIES
Essential Functions:
∙ Assists Box Office matters.
∙ Sorts/distributes mail. Assists with bulk mailers.
∙ Copies documents.
∙ Receives, screens and routes calls.
∙ Greets visitors.
∙ Filing and data entry.
∙ Run errands.
∙ Concert and event duties.

Other Functions:
∙ Projects as assigned by Marketing, Development,or Production departments. Performs other duties as
assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education: High school diploma or GED.

Experience: Previous experience in an office settingpreferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Knowledge ofstandard office practices. Excellent customerservice skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and take initiative when
appropriate. Writing/proofreading skills and an understanding of the English language (both written and oral) are
required. Ability to use standard office equipment such as copy machines, multi-line telephones, fax machines,
personal computers. Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 lbs. Must be able to
handle all aspects of position in a positive, professional, timely, and efficient manner. Ability to interact in social
settings and varied situations. Music background is a plus, but not required.

Hours: 20 hours per week minimum.

Wage: Unpaid; College credit negotiable.

Additional information: Required to work occasionalevenings and weekends for concerts/events.

Send Resumes to :
Abilene Philharmonic Association
Attention: Gerard Gibbs, Executive Director
1102 North 3rd St, Suite C
Abilene, TX 79601
Email: info@abilenephilharmonic.org        Phone: 325-677-6710
Applications are currently being accepted until the position is filled

Executive Director

JOB DESCRIPTION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (ABILENE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA)


About the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra
The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra (APO), led by our Music Director Maestro David Itkin, is a professional orchestra serving musicians and music lovers in and around Abilene with seven concerts (4 Masterworks and 3 Pops) per season. Beginning in the fall, the APO celebrates its 73rd season of music-making in West Texas. We seek an innovative Executive Director to help fulfill our mission of unleashing the power of music to entertain, educate and inspire through live symphonic music and community  engagement.


About Abilene, Texas and the Surrounding Area
Abilene (population: 127,385) is experiencing substantial growth, with an eclectic mix of industries, four universities, and two colleges. Regular partnerships with Dyess Air Force Base, Hendrick Health, and generous local foundations have helped make the APO a vital presence in the community.


The cultural landscape of the community includes a number of nationally-recognized museums (The Grace Museum, National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, 12th Armored Division Museum, the Center for Contemporary Arts, and Frontier Texas) and a beautifully-restored 1930s “atmospheric” movie palace (the Historic Paramount Theatre).


Live theatrical productions (Paramount Productions, Abilene Community Theatre, touring shows, and three university theatre programs) grace Abilene stages throughout the year. Abilene also boasts a thriving live music scene, including two summer concert series (Open Road at The Grace Museum’s rooftop and Rock and Roar at our award-winning zoological park), a country music festival (Outlaws and Legends), and regular performances at venues throughout the city and county.


Additionally, Abilene has a local NPR affiliate station broadcasting news and classical music (KACU), and a number of performing arts organizations (Chorus Abilene, the Abilene Community Band, and the collegiate Civic Orchestra of Abilene) with whom the APO occasionally partners.


Abilene is the commercial and cultural anchor of a 19-county region known as “The Big Country.” For outdoor enthusiasts, three state parks and several lakes lie within an hour’s drive. Two hours to the east, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is home to five professional sports teams, a NASCAR Cup Series race, two annual PGA Tour events, nine universities, multiple art museums, and the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

 

The APO Annual Budget
Approaching $1M, our budget supports a subscription series of concerts at the Abilene Convention Center, Zoo Concerts, and cabaret-style shows at the Historic Paramount Theatre. Thanks to the work of an active, engaged, and visionary Board, the APO enjoys a uniquely firm financial standing. In 2021, the orchestra launched the Music Director’s Endowment Campaign to help secure finances into the future. Far exceeding their initial goal, the Board announced the public phase of the campaign with a more aggressive $3M goal, having already raised over two-thirds of the total.

Executive Director
The APO’s Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors and will have overall responsibility for the APO’s concert logistics, musician and volunteer coordination, community partnerships, fundraising, grant writing, and community- based marketing. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a passion for innovatively connecting the community with classical and popular music programming. APO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of candidates.

Executive Director Responsibilities

 Leadership, Operations, & Concert Execution

  1. Plan, execute and oversee logistics for all concerts, including working with Music Director, staff, Board members and volunteers.
  2. Coordinate educational, outreach, and other off-stage activities.
  3. Work with APO Personnel Manager and Music Director to manage musician matters, including auditions, scheduling, and recurring paid engagements.
  4. Oversee volunteer development, planning, and deployment in collaboration with staff.
  5. Develop and implement policies and procedures to promote organizational governance.
  6. Coordinate the operation of APO board committees.
  7. Attend all Board meetings to deliver ED report; coordinate with Executive Committee; synchronize board involvement with ongoing efforts; attend certain committee meetings where ED participation is required, including Executive Committee and Finance Committee.
  8. Track operational and leadership considerations as necessary for grants.
  9. Produce annual celebratory meeting for all APO musicians, Board, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Fundraising, Marketing, Finance, & Communications

  1. In collaboration with Treasurer and Finance/Fund Development Committees, set, monitor, and manage fundraising and budgetary goals.
  2. Source current, and create new, opportunities to generate ongoing sponsorship and donor relationships, including Abilene Gives Day.
  3. Organize and develop donor thank you messages, database, manage Bloomerang account for donor management and cultivation, and other ongoing donor maintenance efforts.
  4. Coordinate grant-writing efforts and timely preparation of all required reports, from significant funders, and new granting relationships.
  5. Develop fundraising special events and initiatives in collaboration with the Fund Development Committee.
 

Qualifications
Preference will be given for candidates with backgrounds in music, arts administration, fundraising, and/or marketing. Regardless of prior background, the characteristics we prize most are the leadership skills and collegiality required to lead our dedicated staff and collaborate with our talented Music Director and orchestra members.


The ED position reports to the Board of Directors, working alongside the Music Director, and partnering with musicians and staff, including the Operations and Orchestra Personnel Manager and Box Office Manager.


The ED is supported by part-time support staff members: Orchestra Librarian and Director of Community Engagement and Education Programs, with interns drawn  from the university community. Prior experience working with a Board of Directors and staff members is required.

Required Skills & Qualifications

  • Commitment to attend and oversee the successful operation of concerts and
    other APO activities, which mostly take place at night
  • Strong project management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple organizational priorities on time and within
    budget
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to adapt, innovate, and take a practical-visionary approach to a small
    organization’s big goals
  • Desire to promote classical music, professionalism, and pragmatism
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; a persuasive and passionate
    speaker and communicator who can tell the APO’s story to new audiences
  • Compassionate, clear management skills when working with personnel and
    volunteers
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of programs
  • Ability to use Google Docs, Sheets, and other tools for collaborative work
  • Experience with or ability to learn event ticketing software and the
    Bloomerang donor management/fundraising site

 

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

  • Financial and budgeting acumen
  • Marketing experience
  • Comprehensive fundraising strategy awareness and experience
  • Experience with operating a nonprofit arts organization (ideally orchestra)
    Compensation, Benefits, Hours, and Location
  • $55,000 – $70,000 annually (Salary is commensurate with experience,
    within the framework of the organization’s annual operating budget).
  • Additional potential for compensation to be determined based on
    fundraising success.
  • Benefits include: health insurance, paid vacation, holiday and sick leave.

How To Apply

Submit resume, cover letter, and three professional references to: edsearch@abilenephilharmonic.org and be sure to include “Executive Director” in the subject line.

Include in the cover letter the following information:
• Salary history and requirements
• How you learned of the position
• Description of how your qualifications and experience match Abilene Philharmonic’s needs.

Application Time Line:

  • For full consideration, please send materials by July 1, 2023.
  • Anticipated Start date: August 1-15, 2023.
  • Only electronic submissions will be considered. All nominations and expressions of interest will be held in the strictest confidence.

Internship-Education Programs

SUMMARY

This internship is an ideal position for those interested in exploring a position in music education within a professional symphony orchestra.  The Intern will work closely with all APO staff and provide support.  Duties include program planning, preparation, and project based work.

DUTIES

Essential Functions:

  • Assist with planning and execution of education activities.
  • Assist with setup and breakdown of Abilene Youth Orchestra rehearsals and concerts.
  • Music Librarian duties as assigned.
  • Filing and data entry.
  • Run errands.
  • Concert and event duties.

Other Functions:

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:       High school diploma or GED.

Experience:     Previous experience in an office setting preferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:   Knowledge of standard office practices.  Excellent customer service skills.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  Ability to work independently and take initiative when appropriate.  Writing/proofreading skills and an understanding of the English language (both written and oral) are required.  Ability to use standard office equipment such as copy machines, multi-line telephones, fax machines, personal computer.  Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 lbs.  Must be able to handle all aspects of position in a positive, professional, timely, and efficient manner.  Ability to interact in social settings and varied situations.  Music education background or currently studying music education preferred but not required.

Hours: 10 hours per week minimum.

Wage: Unpaid; College credit negotiable

Box Office/Admin Intern

Job Title: Internship

Reports to: Executive Director

SUMMARY
This internship is an ideal position for those interested in exploring a position in an orchestral and/or nonprofit
setting. The Intern will work closely with all APO staff and provide support. Duties include general clerical,
receptionist and project based work.

DUTIES
Essential Functions:
∙ Assists Box Office matters.
∙ Sorts/distributes mail. Assists with bulk mailers.
∙ Copies documents.
∙ Receives, screens and routes calls.
∙ Greets visitors.
∙ Filing and data entry.
∙ Run errands.
∙ Concert and event duties.

Other Functions:
∙ Projects as assigned by Marketing, Development,or Production departments. Performs other duties as
assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education: High school diploma or GED.

Experience: Previous experience in an office settingpreferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Knowledge ofstandard office practices. Excellent customerservice skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and take initiative when
appropriate. Writing/proofreading skills and an understanding of the English language (both written and oral) are
required. Ability to use standard office equipment such as copy machines, multi-line telephones, fax machines,
personal computers. Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 lbs. Must be able to
handle all aspects of position in a positive, professional, timely, and efficient manner. Ability to interact in social
settings and varied situations. Music background is a plus, but not required.

Hours: 20 hours per week minimum.

Wage: Unpaid; College credit negotiable.

Additional information: Required to work occasionalevenings and weekends for concerts/events.

Send Resumes to :
Abilene Philharmonic Association
Attention: Gerard Gibbs, Executive Director
1102 North 3rd St, Suite C
Abilene, TX 79601
Email: info@abilenephilharmonic.org        Phone: 325-677-6710
Applications are currently being accepted until the position is filled

Executive Director

JOB DESCRIPTION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (ABILENE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA)


About the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra
The Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra (APO), led by our Music Director Maestro David Itkin, is a professional orchestra serving musicians and music lovers in and around Abilene with seven concerts (4 Masterworks and 3 Pops) per season. Beginning in the fall, the APO celebrates its 73rd season of music-making in West Texas. We seek an innovative Executive Director to help fulfill our mission of unleashing the power of music to entertain, educate and inspire through live symphonic music and community  engagement.


About Abilene, Texas and the Surrounding Area
Abilene (population: 127,385) is experiencing substantial growth, with an eclectic mix of industries, four universities, and two colleges. Regular partnerships with Dyess Air Force Base, Hendrick Health, and generous local foundations have helped make the APO a vital presence in the community.


The cultural landscape of the community includes a number of nationally-recognized museums (The Grace Museum, National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, 12th Armored Division Museum, the Center for Contemporary Arts, and Frontier Texas) and a beautifully-restored 1930s “atmospheric” movie palace (the Historic Paramount Theatre).


Live theatrical productions (Paramount Productions, Abilene Community Theatre, touring shows, and three university theatre programs) grace Abilene stages throughout the year. Abilene also boasts a thriving live music scene, including two summer concert series (Open Road at The Grace Museum’s rooftop and Rock and Roar at our award-winning zoological park), a country music festival (Outlaws and Legends), and regular performances at venues throughout the city and county.


Additionally, Abilene has a local NPR affiliate station broadcasting news and classical music (KACU), and a number of performing arts organizations (Chorus Abilene, the Abilene Community Band, and the collegiate Civic Orchestra of Abilene) with whom the APO occasionally partners.


Abilene is the commercial and cultural anchor of a 19-county region known as “The Big Country.” For outdoor enthusiasts, three state parks and several lakes lie within an hour’s drive. Two hours to the east, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is home to five professional sports teams, a NASCAR Cup Series race, two annual PGA Tour events, nine universities, multiple art museums, and the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

 

The APO Annual Budget
Approaching $1M, our budget supports a subscription series of concerts at the Abilene Convention Center, Zoo Concerts, and cabaret-style shows at the Historic Paramount Theatre. Thanks to the work of an active, engaged, and visionary Board, the APO enjoys a uniquely firm financial standing. In 2021, the orchestra launched the Music Director’s Endowment Campaign to help secure finances into the future. Far exceeding their initial goal, the Board announced the public phase of the campaign with a more aggressive $3M goal, having already raised over two-thirds of the total.

Executive Director
The APO’s Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors and will have overall responsibility for the APO’s concert logistics, musician and volunteer coordination, community partnerships, fundraising, grant writing, and community- based marketing. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a passion for innovatively connecting the community with classical and popular music programming. APO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively seeks a diverse pool of candidates.

Executive Director Responsibilities

 Leadership, Operations, & Concert Execution

  1. Plan, execute and oversee logistics for all concerts, including working with Music Director, staff, Board members and volunteers.
  2. Coordinate educational, outreach, and other off-stage activities.
  3. Work with APO Personnel Manager and Music Director to manage musician matters, including auditions, scheduling, and recurring paid engagements.
  4. Oversee volunteer development, planning, and deployment in collaboration with staff.
  5. Develop and implement policies and procedures to promote organizational governance.
  6. Coordinate the operation of APO board committees.
  7. Attend all Board meetings to deliver ED report; coordinate with Executive Committee; synchronize board involvement with ongoing efforts; attend certain committee meetings where ED participation is required, including Executive Committee and Finance Committee.
  8. Track operational and leadership considerations as necessary for grants.
  9. Produce annual celebratory meeting for all APO musicians, Board, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Fundraising, Marketing, Finance, & Communications

  1. In collaboration with Treasurer and Finance/Fund Development Committees, set, monitor, and manage fundraising and budgetary goals.
  2. Source current, and create new, opportunities to generate ongoing sponsorship and donor relationships, including Abilene Gives Day.
  3. Organize and develop donor thank you messages, database, manage Bloomerang account for donor management and cultivation, and other ongoing donor maintenance efforts.
  4. Coordinate grant-writing efforts and timely preparation of all required reports, from significant funders, and new granting relationships.
  5. Develop fundraising special events and initiatives in collaboration with the Fund Development Committee.
 

Qualifications
Preference will be given for candidates with backgrounds in music, arts administration, fundraising, and/or marketing. Regardless of prior background, the characteristics we prize most are the leadership skills and collegiality required to lead our dedicated staff and collaborate with our talented Music Director and orchestra members.


The ED position reports to the Board of Directors, working alongside the Music Director, and partnering with musicians and staff, including the Operations and Orchestra Personnel Manager and Box Office Manager.


The ED is supported by part-time support staff members: Orchestra Librarian and Director of Community Engagement and Education Programs, with interns drawn  from the university community. Prior experience working with a Board of Directors and staff members is required.

Required Skills & Qualifications

  • Commitment to attend and oversee the successful operation of concerts and
    other APO activities, which mostly take place at night
  • Strong project management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple organizational priorities on time and within
    budget
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to adapt, innovate, and take a practical-visionary approach to a small
    organization’s big goals
  • Desire to promote classical music, professionalism, and pragmatism
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; a persuasive and passionate
    speaker and communicator who can tell the APO’s story to new audiences
  • Compassionate, clear management skills when working with personnel and
    volunteers
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of programs
  • Ability to use Google Docs, Sheets, and other tools for collaborative work
  • Experience with or ability to learn event ticketing software and the
    Bloomerang donor management/fundraising site

 

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

  • Financial and budgeting acumen
  • Marketing experience
  • Comprehensive fundraising strategy awareness and experience
  • Experience with operating a nonprofit arts organization (ideally orchestra)
    Compensation, Benefits, Hours, and Location
  • $55,000 – $70,000 annually (Salary is commensurate with experience,
    within the framework of the organization’s annual operating budget).
  • Additional potential for compensation to be determined based on
    fundraising success.
  • Benefits include: health insurance, paid vacation, holiday and sick leave.

How To Apply

Submit resume, cover letter, and three professional references to: edsearch@abilenephilharmonic.org and be sure to include “Executive Director” in the subject line.

Include in the cover letter the following information:
• Salary history and requirements
• How you learned of the position
• Description of how your qualifications and experience match Abilene Philharmonic’s needs.

Application Time Line:

  • For full consideration, please send materials by July 1, 2023.
  • Anticipated Start date: August 1-15, 2023.
  • Only electronic submissions will be considered. All nominations and expressions of interest will be held in the strictest confidence.

Internship-Education Programs

SUMMARY

This internship is an ideal position for those interested in exploring a position in music education within a professional symphony orchestra.  The Intern will work closely with all APO staff and provide support.  Duties include program planning, preparation, and project based work.

DUTIES

Essential Functions:

  • Assist with planning and execution of education activities.
  • Assist with setup and breakdown of Abilene Youth Orchestra rehearsals and concerts.
  • Music Librarian duties as assigned.
  • Filing and data entry.
  • Run errands.
  • Concert and event duties.

Other Functions:

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:       High school diploma or GED.

Experience:     Previous experience in an office setting preferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:   Knowledge of standard office practices.  Excellent customer service skills.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.  Ability to work independently and take initiative when appropriate.  Writing/proofreading skills and an understanding of the English language (both written and oral) are required.  Ability to use standard office equipment such as copy machines, multi-line telephones, fax machines, personal computer.  Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 lbs.  Must be able to handle all aspects of position in a positive, professional, timely, and efficient manner.  Ability to interact in social settings and varied situations.  Music education background or currently studying music education preferred but not required.

Hours: 10 hours per week minimum.

Wage: Unpaid; College credit negotiable

Box Office/Admin Intern

Job Title: Internship

Reports to: Executive Director

SUMMARY
This internship is an ideal position for those interested in exploring a position in an orchestral and/or nonprofit
setting. The Intern will work closely with all APO staff and provide support. Duties include general clerical,
receptionist and project based work.

DUTIES
Essential Functions:
∙ Assists Box Office matters.
∙ Sorts/distributes mail. Assists with bulk mailers.
∙ Copies documents.
∙ Receives, screens and routes calls.
∙ Greets visitors.
∙ Filing and data entry.
∙ Run errands.
∙ Concert and event duties.

Other Functions:
∙ Projects as assigned by Marketing, Development,or Production departments. Performs other duties as
assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education: High school diploma or GED.

Experience: Previous experience in an office settingpreferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities: Knowledge ofstandard office practices. Excellent customerservice skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and take initiative when
appropriate. Writing/proofreading skills and an understanding of the English language (both written and oral) are
required. Ability to use standard office equipment such as copy machines, multi-line telephones, fax machines,
personal computers. Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 lbs. Must be able to
handle all aspects of position in a positive, professional, timely, and efficient manner. Ability to interact in social
settings and varied situations. Music background is a plus, but not required.

Hours: 20 hours per week minimum.

Wage: Unpaid; College credit negotiable.

Additional information: Required to work occasionalevenings and weekends for concerts/events.

Send Resumes to :
Abilene Philharmonic Association
Attention: Gerard Gibbs, Executive Director
1102 North 3rd St, Suite C
Abilene, TX 79601
Email: info@abilenephilharmonic.org        Phone: 325-677-6710
Applications are currently being accepted until the position is filled

Please see our auditions page for
information on musician openings.

The 2020-2021 season marks Maestro David Itkin’s 16th season as Music Director and Conductor of the Abilene Philharmonic, and his 13th year serving as Professor of Music and Director of Orchestral Studies at the University of North Texas College of Music, where his recent performances have included Mahler Symphony No. 4, the Verdi Requiem, Beethoven Symphony No. 9, and Puccini’s Turandot with the UNT Grand Chorus, and Janacek’s The Cunning Little Vixen with the UNT Opera Theatre. During the 2018-2019 season he also joined the Abilene Opera Company for Handel’s Messiah and a fully staged production of West Side Story.

Following a distinguished 17-year tenure, Maestro Itkin was named Conductor Laureate of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra in July 2010. Previously Mr. Itkin served as Music Director & Conductor of the Las Vegas Philharmonic, Artistic Director and Conductor of the McCall Summerfest in McCall, Idaho, and as Music Director & Conductor of the Lake Forest Symphony (Chicago), the Kingsport Symphony, the Birmingham Opera Theatre, and the Lucius Woods Music Festival (Wisconsin).

During past seasons Maestro Itkin’s career has taken him to 45 U.S. states and 15 countries in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including concerts and recordings with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, the Slovenska Filhamonija, the San Diego Symphony, and the Seoul Philharmonic. Other guest conducting appearances include concerts with the Colorado Philharmonic, the Annapolis Symphony, the National Repertory Orchestra, the Fort Worth Symphony, the Illinois Symphony, the Delaware Symphony, the New Hampshire Symphony, the Cheyenne Symphony, and the Indianapolis, Baltimore, and Reno Chamber Orchestras. During the Summer of 2006 Maestro Itkin appeared once again with the Slovenska Filharmonija in Ljubljana, Slovenia, conducting the opening concert of the 14th World Saxophone Congress.

His book, Conducting Concerti, was released in August 2014 to considerable critical acclaim. Leonard Slatkin called Conducting Concerti “a valuable textbook for the aspiring Maestro” and “highly recommended”, and Samuel Adler wrote that it is “an invaluable addition to the world of conducting textbooks.”

Mr. Itkin’s first film score (“Sugar Creek”) was recorded in 2006 by the Arkansas Symphony for the film’s 2007 release. His most recent major work, “Exodus”, an oratorio, was premiered in April 2005 in Little Rock, with William Shatner narrating. “Exodus” was released worldwide on CD in 2007.

In May 2009 Maestro Itkin was awarded both an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by Lyon College and the Above the Barre award by Ballet Arkansas.

In addition to his professional schedule, Maestro Itkin regularly serves as a guest conductor/clinician, including concerts with the Arkansas All-State Orchestra, the Southern California High School Honors Orchestra, the Maine All-State Orchestra, the Las Vegas Senior Honors Orchestra, and several Texas all-region Honors Orchestras.

Also in demand as a speaker and lecturer, Mr. Itkin has been asked to lecture for a wide variety of organizations, including SilverSea cruise lines, two consecutive years as a featured lecturer for the Arkansas Governor’s School, the Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras, and a keynote address at the National Federation of Music Clubs national conference.