CHOIR MASTER / CHORUS MASTER

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Position Type: Full-Time
Start Date: As soon as possible

About the Role

Mandle Philharmonic is seeking an exceptional Choir Master / Chorus Master to shape, elevate, and inspire the choral forces for our upcoming performance season. This is a rare opportunity to lead vocal forces in preparing two of the most thrilling and transcendent choral masterworks ever written: Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 (“Resurrection”) and the colossal Symphony No. 8 (“Symphony of a Thousand”).

These works are not simply concerts—they are events, artistic summits, and emotional journeys of staggering scale. We are looking for a leader who is energized by the magnitude, challenge, and glory of assembling choirs capable of delivering the spiritual power of Mahler’s vision.

The ideal candidate brings world-class choral expertise, bold artistic leadership, and the ability to recruit, develop, and prepare elite singers who can rise to the immense vocal demands and breathtaking sonic scope of these monumental works.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all rehearsals, sectionals, vocal warm-ups, and preparation for the chorus.

• Assemble, recruit, and curate a roster of exceptional choral singers specifically tailored to meet the massive vocal architecture of Mahler 2 and Mahler 8—including professional, semi-professional, and highly skilled community singers.

• Oversee and manage chorus auditions, callbacks, and roster finalization.

• Develop vocal strategies for blend, clarity, strength, stamina, diction, and ensemble unity suitable for large-scale symphonic forces.

• Collaborate closely with the Music Director, Concertmaster, and artistic team on interpretation, phrasing, structure, and Mahlerian style.

• Prepare the chorus for all performances, ensuring readiness for orchestral rehearsals and dress rehearsals.

• Support artistic planning through seating charts, score preparation, and rehearsal scheduling.

• Attend all required rehearsals, production meetings, and performances.

• Serve as an artistic leader, collaborator, and ambassador for Mandle Philharmonic within both the musical community and the broader arts landscape.

Qualifications

• Degree in Choral Conducting, Vocal Performance, or equivalent professional experience.

• Proven experience leading choirs at an advanced or professional level.

• Demonstrated success preparing large choruses for major symphonic repertoire; prior experience with Mahler 2 and/or Mahler 8 is a highly valued asset.

• Exceptional rehearsal technique, musicianship, communication skills, and artistic insight.

• Ability to motivate, inspire, and organize diverse groups of vocalists.

• Strong network within the Canadian choral and vocal communities (an asset).

Compensation

Fee: $200k – 250k CAD
(Compensation commensurate with experience and scope of project.)

How to Apply

Please submit the following to [email protected] with the subject line:
“Chorus Master Application – [Your Name]”

• Cover letter

• Resume / CV

• Video links demonstrating rehearsal or conducting work

• Two references (professional or artistic)

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Equity Statement

Mandle Philharmonic is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, disabled, and newcomer communities. Accommodations are available throughout the hiring process upon request.