We are Hiring!
Job Title: Collaborative Pianist for Youth Choir
Type: Part-Time
Organization: Casper Children’s Chorale
About Us: Casper Children’s Chorale is a dedicated community organization that enriches the lives of young people, through the transformative power of choral music. Our youth choir consists of enthusiastic and talented singers in grades 4-8, who are committed to achieving musical excellence while also developing teamwork and leadership skills. We provide a positive and supportive environment where children can express themselves and grow as musicians and individuals.
Position Summary: We are seeking a skilled and passionate Collaborative Pianist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in piano performance and experience working with choirs. The Collaborative Pianist will play a vital role in supporting the artistic vision of the choir director and enhancing the musical experience for our young singers.
Qualifications:
Proficiency in piano, with the ability to sight-read and perform a variety of choral literature
Previous experience accompanying choirs
Ability to collaborate effectively with the Choir Director and other staff members
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well with young singers
Flexibility and reliability, with a commitment to attending all scheduled rehearsals and performances
Knowledge of a wide range of musical genres and styles
Roles & Responsibilities:
Accompany the youth choir during weekly rehearsals, sectionals, and performances
Collaborate with the Choir Director to prepare and rehearse music
Respond sensitively to performance elements such as tempo, phrasing, dynamics, and interpretation
Preparedness for all rehearsals, including preparation that will need to take place outside of rehearsals
Provide musical support for special events, concerts, and community outreach programs
Assist with vocal warm-ups and exercises as needed
Maintain a high standard of musicianship and contribute to a positive, encouraging rehearsal atmosphere
Provide support during performances and special events
In the event of an absence, secure a substitute pianist and compensate the accompanist, as your position is salaried
Must be willing and capable of teaching and monitoring student behavior
Build relationships and rapport with the singers, helping to establish connections within the choir
Perform other duties as assigned to support the choir’s operations
Working Conditions:
Rehearsals are held Tuesdays from 4:30-6:00 pm
Extra rehearsals are offered 1-2 times per month on Thursdays from 5:30-7:00 pm
Performances and additional rehearsals will be scheduled on evenings and weekends
An expectation of practice time outside of scheduled rehearsals to allow for preparedness during rehearsal time
Some lifting and physical setup of equipment may be required
Travel to various performance venues will be required
Compensation:
Pay is commensurate with experience, ranging from $5,000-$7,000 for the teaching year of August – June and is paid on a 10-month schedule
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following:
A cover letter detailing your experience and interest in working with youth choirs
A resume highlighting relevant qualifications and experience
Contact information of three professional references
Please send your application materials to cccsings307@gmail.com with the subject line “Collaborative Pianist Application” – [Your Name]”.
Casper Children’s Chorale is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Join us in supporting the musical journey of young singers and making a positive impact in our community!
Erin Zavodny, Director, Casper Children's Chorale
Erin grew up with a love for music. She began singing as soon as she could talk, and started piano lessons at age 6. Erin was fortunate to sing under the direction of Marcia Patton while at Kelly Walsh High School and also studied with Dr.Pat Patton at Casper College. She spent a year singing with the University of Wyoming Collegiate Chorale, Vocal Jazz Ensemble and accompanying the UW Centennial Singers before traveling to Lincoln, NE where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Pedagogy from Union College. She is currently pursuing her Master of Music Education degree from Northern State University. Erin taught elementary music, choral and instrumental music in Midwest for five years, and is now in her ninth year at Dean Morgan Middle School where she teaches choir, piano and musical theater. Erin has always been active with music ministry in her church. She has been a soprano soloist for Handel’s Messiah as well as Rutter’s Mass of the Children and was a frequent soloist with Alla Breve. She has a passion for music as well as for teaching, and she loves participating in and contributing to the music community throughout Wyoming.
Anna Burton, Alto Section Leader, Casper Children's Chorale
Anna had an ear for music at a very young age learning to harmonize with her Grandma Linda DeGroot. Her first choral experience was with the Verda James Elementary School “Verda Vocals.” She had her first solo experience with the Centennial Junior High School Concert Choir in 7th grade. She did choir every year throughout Junior High and High School. She was also fortunate enough to sing under the direction of Marcia Patton at Kelly Walsh High School and was a 4-year member of the Wyoming All-State Choir singing 3 different parts. She attended Casper College and studied with Dr. Pat Patton singing in the Women’s Choir, Collegiate Chorale, and Contemporary Singers (also CCC). She then attended Weber State University in Ogden, UT and sang in the Concert Choir for one year. She was a member of Alla Breve, also under the direction of Marcia Patton, from 2007-2014. These days, Anna is a devoted mom of a 7-month-old daughter and 4-year-old son with her husband, Brian, and can usually be found on the volleyball court or at book club. She looks forward to working with the CCC singers and being active in Casper’s choral community again.
Lynn Heyer, Soprano Section Leader, Casper Children's Chorale
Accompanist, Casper Children's Chorale
Morgan Dailey, Bel Canto Director
Paige Ellbogen, Second Soprano Section Leader, Casper Children's Chorale
Paige’s love for music and singing began as a member of the Casper Children’s Chorale and she is so excited to return as a section leader this year. Paige earned her bachelor’s degree in Music from the University of Wyoming where she sang with the Bel Canto Women’s Chorus and Collegiate Chorale. She then received her Master’s in Secondary Education, Music K-12 from Black Hills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota. Paige spent one year in Cheyenne, Wyoming teaching general music and singing in the Cheyenne Chamber Singers before returning to Casper where she is teaching music at Evansville Elementary School. She is looking forward to working with the amazing members and staff of the Children’s Chorale and contributing to the organization that fostered her passion for music.