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Beyond the expected musical expertise, the music director must have strong communication and organizational skills, and be able to work collaboratively with the show's director, cast and orchestra.

The music director is responsible for working with the show's director in preparing a theatre production for public performance, including casting, rehearsing the vocalists and orchestra, and conducting (and sometimes selecting) the orchestra.

In community theatre, the music director often serves in several capacities--working with singers in partnership with the director, rehearsing the cast and orchestra, and serving as conductor for all performances. However, in some cases (especially with a particularly demanding score), a separate vocal director may be used, as well as an assistant conductor who may help during rehearsals or conduct one or more of the performances if the musical director cannot.

It's essential that the production's director and musical director have an ongoing and mutually supportive collaboration. The director communicates their vision of the show, and the music director uses their own understanding of the show's musical demands to help the director (and cast) be successful.  The musical director works with the director in scheduling rehearsals, which cast members need to be there, and what the directors expect to accomplish at each rehearsal.

Typical responsibilities may include:

• Auditioning the singers and making casting recommendations to the director
• Scheduling music rehearsals in collaboration with the director, choreographer and stage manager
• Helping cast members learn their music
• Leading music rehearsals for principals, chorus and orchestra
• Serving as conductor--or, in consultation with the producer and director, hiring a conductor
• In consultation with the producer and director, selecting a rehearsal pianist and orchestra members
• Working with the sound designer when microphones will be used
• Attending production meetings and rehearsals, as needed
• Working with the musicians union, if applicable.

For an in-depth look at the role of the music director, we recommend these articles:

• Music Director job description (PDF) from an AACT-member theatre, one of many job descriptions available in the AACT-member Resource Library on this website.
• For an inclusive nuts-and-bolts look, check out A Guide to Musical Direction in the Amateur Theatre.  Written from a British perspective, this piece (in PDF format) applies to American community theatre, as well.
• For a professional perspective, try Traits and Skills of a Music Director, on the website of the League of American Orchestras.