Job Description

About the Ensemble

The Conejo Valley Choral Society Chamber Singers is a semi-professional ensemble created to bring a fresh and intimate concert experience to the Conejo Valley region. Founded by Conor Whalen—Artistic Director & Music Director of the Conejo Valley Choral Society and Director of the Bozeman Symphonic Choir in Montana—the Chamber Singers perform entirely a cappella, showcasing the pure beauty and harmony of the human voice in carefully curated programs spanning centuries of repertoire. Featured composers have included Palestrina, Anton Bruckner, Thomas Tallis, Heinrich Schütz, William Byrd, Jonathan Dove, and Morten Lauridsen, among many others. Committed to the highest standards of quality, the Chamber Singers bring fine-tuned musicianship, passionate energy, and captivating interpretations to the stage, offering a rewarding experience for both seasoned choral enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

About the Internship

The Rehearsal Pianist Intern plays an essential role in supporting the musical preparation of the Chamber Singers. Although the ensemble performs entirely a cappella, piano accompaniment during rehearsals is crucial for learning, refinement, and ensemble cohesion. During the performance, the intern will also provide initial pitches for each piece. This position offers valuable, hands-on experience in collaborative music-making with a dedicated group of singers under the guidance of an experienced conductor. The internship runs for the Fall semester, with the possibility of renewal for the Spring semester upon successful completion.

Responsibilities

• Come to rehearsals prepared, having practiced the repertoire prior to rehearsals. (Music will be provided in advance; strong sight-reading skills are a plus).
• Provide piano support during ensemble rehearsals.
• Assist the ensemble by playing through challenging passages for individual vocal parts, multiple vocal parts, or the full ensemble.
• Help maintain rehearsal flow by tracking with the score and being ready to play any measure upon request.
• Occasionally prepare practice recordings (if skills and time permit).
• Provide initial pitches for each song during the performance.

Qualifications

• Strong piano skills and comfort preparing and sight-reading choral scores.
• Familiarity with classical choral repertoire (Renaissance through Romantic, plus contemporary works).
• Reliable, punctual, and collaborative.
• Prior experience accompanying singers preferred but not required.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience working with a semi-professional choral ensemble.
• Deeper understanding of vocal ensemble rehearsal techniques and repertoire.
• Mentorship and networking opportunities with experienced choral musicians.
• A résumé-building opportunity in a supportive, artistic environment.
• Complimentary tickets to performances for family or friends.

Time Commitment

• From September to November 2025, a minimum of five (5) rehearsals (2–2.5 hours each), plus occasional sectional rehearsals as we get closer to the performance, if needed. 
• Commitment runs the duration of the rehearsal cycle leading up to the Chamber Singers’ Fall performance, with potential extension to the Spring cycle upon successful completion.
• Availability for the final performance on November 2, 2025 is mandatory, and the intern must commit to seeing the rehearsal cycle through in its entirety. 
• In the event of an emergency preventing the intern from attending a rehearsal, it is their responsibility to notify the conductor as soon as possible.

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