Description

The National Lutheran Choir is an award-winning choral arts organization now in its 40th year with a mission to “celebrate, invigorate, and expand sacred choral music, bringing inspiration and meaning to people of diverse faiths and backgrounds.”  For more information visit www.nlca.com

Position Summary:  The National Lutheran Choir (NLC) seeks a Manager of Artistic Operations whose primary responsibility is to implement concerts, tours, recordings, and other projects for a world class performing arts organization.  A highly skilled administrator, the incumbent will manage budgeting, scheduling, contracting, licensing, and production of a 4-program, multi-concert subscription concert series; tours, auditions, and retreats for a 75-member choral ensemble; audio and visual recording initiatives and live streams; and other projects as they arise.  The position oversees the organization’s 1,000-title music library and provides ensemble management for the singing members.  The National Lutheran Choir is staffed by a small, highly collaborative team. The person in this position will work closely with the Artistic Director, Executive Director, and others.

Responsibilities:

Artistic Administration (60%)

With the Artistic Director, develop, maintain, and communicate the artistic schedule for current and future seasons, including rehearsals, performances, tours, retreats, and recording sessions.
Research and budget accurately for artistic activities, providing critical information for planning and execution; monitor costs and adapt as necessary to stay within budget.
With Artistic Director and Executive Director, identify and plan choir tours. Take the lead on securing reservations for transportation, accommodations, and meals; develop detailed itineraries and schedules to coordinate travel, rehearsals, performances, meals, and downtime.
Secure venues for artistic activities, contracting for the various spaces and services to support the artistic product (dressing rooms, warm-up spaces, green rooms, etc.) 
Interface between the Artistic Director and venue technical staff to implement artistic vision (i.e., screens, lighting, spoken word audio, etc.) 
Engage guest artists, audio engineers, video technicians, producers and others who collaborate with the ensemble; provide clear and ongoing communication with contractors, from first invitation to final payment.
Schedule and oversee annual choir auditions and retreats; including securing spaces for these activities, communicating schedules, and providing hospitality for participants.
Oversee the licensing, contracting and payment for the use of copyrighted text and music in NLC performances, print programs, live streams, and albums.
Assist in assembling and proofing concert programs, liner notes, livestream titles before they are sent to graphic designers.
Work with the Director of Education and Outreach and other staff to coordinate scheduling and implement consistent practices within the organization.

Ensemble Management (30%)

Collect and execute the annual “covenant” with volunteer singers that records approved absences and conflicts.
Issue seasonal contracts for section leaders, assistant conductor, and collaborative pianist.
Develop and disseminate the roster of choir members known as “the Compendium” and ensure that internal systems (Gmail distribution lists, internal CRM, have up-to-date information).
Take and maintain weekly singer attendance records. 
Provide regular communication with singers by monitoring and updating the singer website portal; produce the weekly Tuning Fork e-News; manage announcements during rehearsals; use periodic text messages to convey time sensitive information 
Support the singer volunteers in  the maintenance and distribution of wardrobe items; ensure wardrobe inventory is maintained at appropriate levels and order new wardrobe items as needed.

Music Library Oversight (10%)

Purchase and catalog new music. 
Distribute and collect music to/from all singers. 
Maintain library database and monitor loans and returns of choral scores.
Ensure physical library space is orderly and scores are shelved and re-shelved in a timely fashion.
Engage choir members and other volunteers to assist with library tasks.

To apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume detailing your relevant experience to info@nlca.com

Applications will be reviewed starting March 15, 2026.  

The National Lutheran Choir is a hybrid work environment.  Medical benefits and 403(b) available.

Requirements

Degree or advanced degree in music, arts administration, or the performing arts desired, with special consideration given to those with sacred choral music knowledge and experience.
Highly detail-oriented work style with a commitment to accuracy; project management experience a plus.
Capacity to manage multiple projects and translate emerging ideas in real outcomes.
Professional, engaging, and diplomatic demeanor; strong people skills.
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
Attendance at local concerts and travel when the Choir is on tour are required.