Orchestra Production Manager

  • Full-time

Company Description

The Nashville Symphony inspires, entertains, educates and serves through musical performance, innovation, collaboration and inclusion. Led by music director Giancarlo Guerrero, the orchestra performs more than 150 concerts annually, with a diverse repertoire that includes classical, pops, jazz, movies, and more. It is one of the most active recording orchestras in the U.S., with a total of 14 GRAMMY® Awards and 27 nominations.

 

Job Description

I. Summary

            Title: Orchestra Production Manager

            Reports to: Director of Production

            Status:  Full-Time Salaried, Exempt

            Basic Function:  Successfully produce all orchestra services and events of the Nashville Symphony

 

     II.   Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  •    Oversee technical and operational aspects of Nashville Symphony orchestra services, ensuring smooth execution and meeting musicians' setup needs.
  •    Generate and finalize CAD-drafted stage plots for each program; oversee and manage Nashville Symphony orchestra performances and Assistant Orchestra Production manager
  •    Proactively address staging issues like temperature, lighting, audio, and safety; manage guest artist contract requirements in collaboration with the production and artistic teams
  •    Act as a liaison between guest artists, technical staff, venue, and musicians; ensure compliance with musicians' Collective Bargaining Agreement
  •    Lead load-ins, rehearsals, performances, and load-outs; maintain stage area appearance and safety; supervise stagehands, visiting productions teams, vendors. Supervise floor flips in Laura Turner Concert Hall as needed
  •    Coordinate crew bookings, manage payroll
  •    Prepare show reports and assist in department budget creation, tracking and reconciliation
  •    Manage storage, maintenance, and inventory of orchestra equipment. Facilitate maintenance of Symphony equipment, theatrical infrastructure and backstage facilities
  •    Develop and maintain department manuals and training materials for all production positions
  •    Assist and support orchestra operations and production department personnel with job functions as needed

The duties listed above are not all inclusive.  The person in this position is expected to perform other work-related duties as assigned even though they may not be considered primary duties.

III.       Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervise the Assistant Orchestra Production Manager, part-time crew, visiting productions teams, and vendors

Qualifications

IV.       Work Requirements and Qualifications

  1. Education and Experience

Candidates with a BA/BFA in Technical Theatre or Stage Management are preferred. A minimum of a High School diploma or GED is required, although equivalent professional expertise may also be considered.

Candidates should have at least three years of experience in live event production or project management, ideally with a professional orchestral, opera, theater, or other performing arts presenting organization.

        2. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Understanding of live performance dynamics, with hands-on experience in concert staging, sound reinforcement, audio recording, theatrical lighting, video and projection technologies, coupled with a comprehensive knowledge of orchestral instruments and repertoire
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Competent in embracing diversity through patient and empathetic engagement with individuals from diverse cultural and personal backgrounds
  • Excellent organizational abilities with meticulous attention to detail, skillfully prioritizing tasks to enhance efficiency and meet organizational goals
  • Ability to multitask and maintain composure in high-pressure, fast-paced environments
  • Proven leadership skills in fostering a positive team environment and encouraging creative problem-solving
  • Skilled in interpreting complex documents, such as technical riders, and adept at preparing both routine and detailed reports, including regular expense tracking and program budgets
  • Committed to maintaining confidentiality, balancing tasks with varying urgency effectively, complemented by a good sense of humor and a broad perspective
  • Possession of a personal vehicle and a valid driver’s license strongly desired
  • Flexible Schedule (days/nights, late/early hours, weekends, and holidays)

 

         3.   Software to be Used

                 Essential:  Vectorworks or AutoCAD, Microsoft apps and services

                 Preferred:  ArtsVision

 

      4.   Physical Demands

           This position involves various physical activities essential to fulfilling job responsibilities. The role typically requires the ability to remain in a seated or standing position for extended periods. It also involves tasks that may require manual dexterity, such as using hands for handling tools or controls and reaching with hands and arms. Effective verbal communication and auditory capacity are vital.

           There are occasional requirements to stand, walk, and to lift or move items, with accommodations made as needed for varying physical capabilities. We prioritize a workplace inclusive of those with different physical abilities and are committed to making reasonable adjustments in line with ADA guidelines.

     Vision requirements for this role include clarity of vision at close and long distances, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Additionally, the position may involve working at heights, with safety measures and accessible options provided as necessary.

Additional Information

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

The Nashville Symphony prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, genetics, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

 TITLE VI OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964

The Nashville Symphony is in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which maintains that no person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. If you have questions concerning the Nashville Symphony’s compliance with Title VI, please contact CFO Marye Walker Lewis.

This company is a smoke-free workplace in compliance with the Non-Smoker Protection Act, Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 39-17-1801-1810. In accordance with that law and company policy, smoking is prohibited in enclosed areas of company property.