Sound Art + Experimental Music Program Manager - Bemis Center for Contemporary Art
Full Time Position Summary
The Sound Art + Experimental Music Program Manager is responsible for managing the live/work residencies and dedicated facilities for rehearsing, recording, and performing for Bemis Center's Sound Art + Experimental Music Program. S/he/they works closely with and reports to Bemis Center’s Chief Curator and Director of Programs to advance the organization’s ambitions as a diverse, inclusive, and conceptually-rigorous site by supporting the work of artists from around the world, while serving the region as the premier locale for the presentation and understanding of sound art and experimental music.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Organize and implement all facets of the Residency Program as they pertain to the artists participating in Bemis Center’s new Sound Art + Experimental Music Program, including processes involving the selection, correspondence, on-boarding, facilitation, support, and evaluation of said artists;
Work closely with the Residency Program Manager and Chief Curator and Director of Programs to provide all sound artists-in-residence with essential information pertaining to the facilities and resources offered through the sound program, including a full tour and orientation, training on all equipment, information on scheduling use of venue and recording studio, and understanding of Bemis Center processes, culture, and safety when working in these areas;
Serve as a liaison between sound artists-in-residence and the community through introductions to other local artists, participants in other art programs, professionals in various fields of interest to the sound artist, and by providing them with opportunities to take part in events happening in the city during their residency;
Oversee, manage, and maintain all sound program facilities and equipment to ensure professional use and condition before, during, and after each residency cycle. Work closely with the Chief Curator and Director of Programs and International Advisory Committee to identify and select sound artists and experimental musicians to perform in the sound program’s venue, ensuring the program reflects Bemis’s commitment to supporting artists working in various genres whose work is singular, challenging, uncompromising, and which offers rigorous exploration of the unique power of all forms of sound and music. The position will strive for artistic diversity in this programming and book artists from the internationally recognized to the local, and enlist partnerships with other institutions whenever possible to bring this programming to the community;
Serve as the lead on all public programs (performances, lectures, etc.) presented in the venue, executing and submitting related event forms, securing staff, volunteers, and contract services, such as sound engineers and security, as needed, and managing the venue before, during, and after public programs;
Coordinate and manage all booking, airfare, ground transportation, lodging, and other hospitality requirements for visiting artists;
In close collaboration with the Chief Curator and Director of Programs, develop and oversee annual program budget and provide monthly Profit-and-Loss Statements and all program-related invoices and check requests for all vendors/professional consultants to the Director of Operations;
Maintain community contacts and strengthen ongoing relationships with various institutions in the region, from cultural institutions to educational institutions, to promote the sound program specifically as a new and integral part of Bemis Center’s renowned Residency Program;
Work closely with the Chief Curator and Director of Programs and Development department by providing program content for grant applications and funding proposals, and help cultivate and steward new and current donors inclined to directly support the sound program;
Provide program schedules, content, and other information as needed to the Communications department to promote the sound program through the organization’s current communication channels, including print and digital platforms;
Work closely with the Residency Program Manager to develop and execute program descriptions, residency open-call application processes, and formal exit-evaluation processes to solicit feedback on sound artists-in-residence experience and outcomes from his/her/their Bemis residency;
Other duties as needed.
REQUIREMENTS
MA/MFA with 3 years professional experience or BA/BFA with 5+ years of professional experience
At least 3 years of experience in the field of sound art and/or experimental music including demonstrated programming in a gallery or music venue context
Curiosity about and passion for contemporary sound art, experimental music, and artists
Highly motivated with aspirations to make a difference in the field
Experience working with artists to realize new projects
Demonstrated ability in running and maintaining audio/visual equipment
Technical proficiency in software and equipment in recording studios encouraged
Experience working in an office environment
Organized with an ability both to handle multiple projects and see the big picture while managing micro details
Experience with artist residencies preferable
Ability to adapt to change, identify places where help is required, and take initiative to provide it
Proficiency in Google Drive, Microsoft Office 365 including Word, Excel, and Powerpoint (including mail merge, creating labels, and databases), cloud applications (box.com), and image management (Photoshop, etc.)
COMPENSATION
This is a full-time, exempt position, which requires the flexibility to work varied hours as needed. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefit package provided, including medical, paid holidays, and paid time off.
Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
TO APPLY
For immediate consideration, please submit the following items references to jobs@bemiscenter.org with “Sound Art + Experimental Music Program Manager” in the subject line:
a one-page cover letter
resume
a brief writing sample
the contact information for three professional
For more information regarding this opening and other opportunities, go to:
http://www.bemiscenter.org/about_us/careers.html