Search for New Conductor
The Southern Oregon Concert Band is looking for a new conductor to lead it into its second century of performing music in and around the Rogue Valley. President Ling Helphand says, “We are looking for an experienced conductor, willing to devote the time and energy to continue the band’s development as one of Oregon’s best community bands. Our aim is to always provide our audience with a quality performance of music appealing to a broad cross section of the community.”
The 60 member band has long been an active part of the area’s performing
arts culture. Next year will mark 100 years since its origin as the Hillah Temple
Shrine Band. It has grown and evolved over the years to become a broad-based
community concert band, providing free concerts for residents and visitors, and
offering generations of musicians the opportunity to perform as well as enhance
their musical skills.
The band’s season runs from September to June performing 5 to 6 concerts
per year at various Ashland and Medford locations. The band practices Tuesdays
from 7:00 to 9:00 PM during the concert season at the Ashland Middle School.
The band supports itself through audience and community donations, and
from the dues and donations of its members. The musicians volunteer their
time. The conductor receives an honorarium. This year the band was honored
with a grant from the City of Ashland to upgrade its music library.
Persons interested in applying as conductor should submit a letter of interest
and a brief statement of qualifications to the Band’s President, Ling
Helphand, P.O. Box 3264, Ashland, OR 97520. If you have questions feel free
to contact her at (541) 482-0615 or socbprez@charter.net .