The Mendelssohn Club of Albany has initiated a search for a new conductor to lead the chorus for the 2020-2021 season beginning on June 1, 2020. The club's longtime conductor, Jeffrey Vredenburg, will retire after 21 years of service (1989 - 2001 and 2009 - 2020) following the club's annual spring concert in May of 2020.
A Capital Region tradition since 1909, the 60 voice male chourus is the area's longest continually performing arts group. The club performs annual subscription concert in December and May, but also sings in many other venues for various civic and charitable organizations. We perform a wide range of chorus literature from around the world, singing mostly in English, but also German, Italian, Spanish, Latin, etc. Music selections are either a capella or accompanied by piano and sometimes other instruments. A guest artist or group is engaged for each subscription concert and the club may perform selections with the guests(s).
The conductor serves as the musical leader of the club. In that capacity, the conductor will be responsible for conducting all rehearsals and scheduled concerts, participating in the selection of repertoire, and preparing the chorus to perform a full range of male choral music from around the world at a high level.
The club is governed by an elected Board of Directors comprised of four officers and nine other directors. The officers and board contract for the services of the conductor, accompanist, assistant conductor, librarian and concert coordinator and the salaries are reviewed annually. Much of the club's work is done by standing committees. For example, a Music Committee, which includes the conductor, selects concert themes and programs for the upcoming season. The club's year consists of two semesters running from early September to mid-December and early January to mid-May. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings.
It takes time for a conductor and a chorus to bond and begin to understand one another. Therefore we expect that a prospective conductor is in it for the long haul.
The chair of the search committee is William Carmello. If you have questions, you may call him at or send him email at . To apply for the position, please email him your resume or by post to the following address:
William Carmello
6 Holly Lane
Latham, NY 12110