JOB POSTINGS
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Jazz Music Director
Mile High Community Band
1 evening / week
Salary Range: $135/day
Description:
The Jazz Music Director is the artistic leader of MHCB's jazz program, covering both the jazz band (big band) and the jazz combo. The director plans repertoire, runs weekly rehearsals, and conducts performances throughout the concert season.
The role reports to MHCB's Music Director and works closely with the Operations Manager on scheduling, venues, and logistics. The ideal candidate is an experienced jazz educator or performer who enjoys helping adult amateur musicians swing, improvise, and grow.
Responsibilities
*Select and program repertoire for the jazz band and combo that fits the players' abilities and each concert's theme, in coordination with the Music Director.
*Plan and lead weekly rehearsals for both groups, including sectionals when needed.
*Conduct and lead the jazz groups at scheduled concerts and community performances.
*Teach jazz style, phrasing, and improvisation in an encouraging way that serves players of mixed experience.
*Assign solos and parts, and help players develop as soloists.
*Work with the band librarian to request, organize, and return music, and keep the band's sheet music library current.
*Support recruiting of new players, especially for hard-to-fill chairs.
*Communicate rehearsal plans and concert details to members in a timely way.
*Collaborate with the Music Director, Operations Manager, and Board on season planning and budget needs for music and equipment.
Qualifications
Required
*Strong background in jazz performance, education, or both.
*Experience directing or leading a jazz ensemble, big band, or combo.
*Solid knowledge of jazz styles, rhythm section function, and improvisation.
*Clear, positive rehearsal technique with volunteer or student musicians.
*Reliable availability for weekly evening rehearsals and scheduled concerts.
Preferred
*Degree or coursework in jazz studies, music education, or music performance.
*Experience working with adult community ensembles.
*Ability to arrange or adapt charts for the band's instrumentation.
*Connections in the Denver-area jazz community that could help with recruiting players and guest artists.
Time Commitment and Compensation
Rehearsals
Thursday evenings, 6:00 to 8:30 pm, at West High School in Denver. No rehearsals in July, on Thanksgiving, or during Christmas week.
Concerts
4 planned concerts per year
Prep time
Additional time for repertoire planning and score study outside of rehearsal
Compensation
$135 per rehearsal evening, about 45 rehearsals per year (roughly $6,200 annually)
Start Date
January 7, 2027 (an interim director is currently covering rehearsals)
How to Apply
Send the following to hiring@milehighcommunityband.com by October 31, 2026, with "Jazz Music Director" in the subject line:
*A resume or summary of your jazz performance, teaching, and ensemble leadership experience.
*A short letter describing your approach to leading adult volunteer musicians.
*Two or three professional references.
*Optional: links to recordings or video of you performing or leading an ensemble.
Close Date: 10/31/2026 or when filled