Expression of Interest 

Associate Conductors: Malta Concert Orchestra

The Malta Concert Orchestra

The orchestra, formerly known as the PBS Orchestra, was set up in 2014. In 2017 it moved to Pjazza Teatru Rjal and was rebranded as the Malta Concert Orchestra with a mission “to reach out to people across the board through accessible and inspiring musical performances.”

The MCO is a versatile ensemble made up of professional and semi-professional musicians who perform in formations of various sizes ranging from a small jazz combo and big band to a full pop orchestra depending on venue and occasion. Over the years, the orchestra has played a crucial role in providing professional but affordable concerts ranging from rock, pop and jazz to swing, soul and musicals.

For the past years it has also provided live orchestral accompaniment in the annual festival l-Għanja tal-Poplu while continuing to reaching out to the widest possible audience through community concerts in various localities as part of Pjazza Teatru Rjal’s community outreach programme Pjazza fi Pjazza.

In a few years the MCO has gained an impressive following with performances being almost invariably sold out. Memorable nights include the The Name’s Bond…, Queen Tribute Concert,  the annual Notte Italiana, MCO Pop, A Night at the Musicals, Elton John Tribute, Swinging with the Crooners,  Sing and Swing among many others. The MCO has also accompanied in concert popular Italian TV star Massimo Lopez and Italian pop icon Pupo.

Overall purpose of the post

The Associate Conductor is required to perform such duties as to enhance, develop and prepare the Malta Concert Orchestra and its musicians to achieve the highest standards possible for one or more of its season’s concerts or community events as directed by the Management of Pjazza Teatru Rjal. In so doing, the Associate Conductor’s responsibilities will include:

i.                 arranging, orchestrating and extracting of parts of all music for the agreed concert; 

ii.                scheduling and programming of the orchestra’s rehearsals including selection of music, musicians and singers; 

iii.               rehearsing the singers, backing vocalists, and orchestra as necessary to ensure the best possible results;

iv.               conducting the Malta Concert Orchestra as assigned by and agreed with the Pjazza Teatru Rjal Management;

v.                working closely with the management and staff of Pjazza Teatru Rjal to maintain the highest artistic standards;

vi.             ensuring that the sound quality of the orchestra in the theatre is of the highest standards;

vii.    ensuring a strong working relationship with the PTR Board, Managament, staff, and musicians;

viii.          taking charge of the conduct and performance standards of the orchestra musicians and any singers or soloists who may be engaged from time to time; and

ix.              managing or discharging such other responsibilities as may from time to time be assigned to them by Pjazza Teatru Rjal or its representative.

Candidate qualities

Candidates in possession of Maltese or EU citizenship may apply for this post. The ideal candidate needs to:

a.      ensure highest levels of musical and artistic qualities;

b.      provide a vision and direction for the proposed concert;

c.     demonstrate strong commitment towards Pjazza Teatru Rjal and the Malta Concert Orchestra;

d.      have the ability to work in a team and maintain good working relations with the Board, Management, staff, and musicians;

e.      work autonomously and meet deadlines;

f.       accept feedback and direction; and

g.      adapt according to work exigencies.

Application process

Candidates with a proven track record in the field of arranging, orchestrating, and conducting of pop music are required to submit their application that shall consist of:

a.      a motivation letter;

b.      a Curriculum Vitae detailing the candidate’s musical studies and experience in the field;

c.      copies of relevant certificates;

d.      media portfolio supporting the candidate’s experience (audio and/or visual material should be uploaded on online video platforms);

e.      orchestration portfolio consisting of at least three songs orchestrated for pops orchestra (provided as hard copies or PDF’s);

f.       an artistic proposal consisting of suggested concert/s that the candidate will be able to conduct in concert with the Malta Concert Orchestra; and

g.      the name and email addresses of three referees.

Shortlisted candidates may be asked to attend an interview and/or undertake a rehearsal with the orchestra.

Applications

Applications are to be sent by registered mail to:

The Director
Pjazza Teatru Rjal
Casa Cassar,
Triq il-Vittorja
Valletta VLT1050

or on

contact@pjazzateatrurjal.mt

by not later than 12 noon on Monday 30 September 2024.