Dallas, Texas, Description The Board Liaison is a strategic administrative professional responsible for advancing the Dallas Symphony Association’s governance effectiveness through high-level Board engagement, institutional coordination, and independent judgment. The position serves as a primary liaison between the Board, Board leadership, executives, and staff, ensuring strong governance practices, informed decision-making, and meaningful Board participation to drive organizational priorities. Operating with a high degree of autonomy and discretion, the role plans, manages, and continuously improves Board processes, communications, and engagement strategies.  This position exercises independent judgment on matters of significance related to governance, Board relations, and organizational priorities, and is expected to manage work outcomes rather than defined tasks or schedules. Essential Responsibilities Board Governance & Strategic Engagement  Serve as a principal liaison to the Board of Governors and its committees, independently managing the flow of information, communications, and action items between Board members, executive leadership, and senior staff. In partnership with the President & CEO, plan and execute an annual governance calendar, including Board meetings, committee meetings, and the Annual Meeting. Develop, coordinate, and curate Board meeting agendas, materials, and presentations, advising senior leadership on structure, sequencing, and content to support effective governance and decision-making. Attend Board and committee meetings; exercise judgment in documenting deliberations, drafting official minutes, and identifying action items, risks, and follow-up priorities. Maintain and interpret governance documents, including bylaws, committee charters, policies, and meeting records; advise leadership on compliance, best practices, and governance improvements. Lead Board orientation and onboarding initiatives, including ongoing engagement strategies that support Board effectiveness, stewardship, and inclusion. Independently draft and manage formal communications on behalf of the President & CEO related to governance and Board development.  Board Giving & Philanthropic Alignment Partner with Development leadership to align Board engagement with fundraising priorities, campaigns, and institutional objectives. Serve as a strategic liaison between Board members and Development staff regarding Board giving, participation, and cultivation activities. Analyze Board giving, engagement metrics, and demographic data; prepare reports and insights for executive leadership to inform strategy and planning. Identify opportunities to enhance Board involvement in donor cultivation, stewardship, and advocacy, making proactive recommendations to leadership. Institutional Leadership & Professional Judgment Operate  as a trusted advisor to senior leaders on Board-related matters, exercising judgment in sensitive and confidential situations. Anticipate governance needs, proactively identifying risks, opportunities, and strategic improvements. Represent the President’s Office in internal planning discussions related to governance, engagement, and philanthropy. Operational Management & Administrative Excellence Prepare and distribute the weekly  CEO to Board of Governors  communication, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with organizational priorities. Coordinate the collection, verification, and integration of Board member updates, ensuring data integrity across internal systems. Maintain and regularly update Board records across platforms, including CRM data, Board directories, IT distribution lists, and contact information, ensuring accuracy and institutional consistency. Manage routine administrative workflows that support governance operations, including scheduling, compiling briefing materials, tracking action items, and organizing supporting documents for Board and committee meetings. Support the CEO’s office with the design and preparation of presentations, reports, and meeting packets, applying sound judgment to sequencing, format, and content needs.     Bachelor’s degree required; advanced coursework or degree in arts administration, nonprofit management, or related field preferred. Minimum of 4–6 years of progressively responsible experience working with nonprofit Boards, executive leadership, or institutional governance at a professional level. Demonstrated knowledge of nonprofit governance principles, Board best practices, and fiduciary responsibilities. Proven ability to exercise independent judgment, manage confidential information, and influence outcomes without direct authority. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including drafting formal governance documents and executive correspondence. Strong analytical and organizational skills, with experience interpreting data and advising leadership. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and donor CRM systems (Tessitura preferred). Experience within performing arts or cultural institutions is strongly preferred. Working Conditions This is an salaried, full-time position. Work is expected to be completed in accordance with institutional priorities and deadlines rather than defined daily hours. Regular evening and weekend availability is expected in connection with Board meetings, performances, and special events. Hybrid work environment with on-site presence required as business needs dictate. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra offers a competitive benefits package, free onsite parking, and access to complimentary concert tickets when available. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.   EOE- Equal Opportunity Employer

Grand Rapids, Michigan, The Grand Rapids Symphony (GRS) Assistant Conductor is a full-time, benefits eligible position. The Assistant Conductor reports administratively to the President & CEO and is artistically accountable to the GRS Music Director. She/he/they will also work closely with the Senior Vice President & General Manager and production operations team. This individual will be an energetic and dynamic musician who excels at connecting with musicians and diverse audiences and projects a positive and engaging personality on and off the podium. The Assistant Conductor is responsible for developing, hosting and conducting educational and community concerts and serving as the cover conductor for rehearsals and concerts as assigned by the Music Director. The Assistant Conductor will host and conduct other programs, which may include movie performances, run-outs, summer series and masterworks (classical series) performances. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Work with the Music Director, General Manager, and other key staff to plan, conduct and develop, as needed, educational and community engagement concerts. • Serve as a cover conductor for assigned rehearsals and concerts, substituting for the scheduled conductor in case of an emergency. • Assist the Music Director, Principal Pops Conductor, and guest conductors during assigned rehearsals to provide feedback on artistic matters. • Develop and/or conduct Pops concerts, movies, and off stage conducting as needed. • Work with the Music Director to assist recording engineer or other media entities in the final editing of GRS performances for archival, broadcast, or commercial release. • Participate in GRS production team meetings and other activities as determined and identified by GRS management. • Participate in concert lectures and other speaking engagements, as assigned. • Accompany GRS on tours, as assigned. • Attend donor events and participate in other development opportunities, as requested. REQUIREMENTS • At least three years’ experience conducting and working with orchestras. • Undergraduate music degree or foreign equivalent strongly preferred. • Exceptional musicianship and conducting skills and knowledge of a broad range of repertoire. • Ability to manage time effectively in rehearsal. • Strong interpersonal and communication (both verbal and written) skills with fluency in English. • Strong presentation skills from the stage. • In compliance with federal law, potential employees will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States. The required employment eligibility verification documentation will be required upon engagement. If applicable, the responsibility and cost of obtaining such authorization is solely that of the candidate. GUEST CONDUCTOR OPPORTUNITIES The GRS understands that the Assistant Conductor may receive guest conducting opportunities with other organizations and she/he/they will be allowed a reasonable amount of time-off for such engagements subject to the approval of the Music Director. APPLICATIONS To apply for this position, please send the following information to HumanResources@GRSymphony.org by Monday, February 23, 2026: • Cover Letter • Resume or Curriculum Vitae • Three sample programs, with one each of the following: o Classical Program o Pops Program o Education Program (including the age level of the audience and education objectives the program seeks to communicate). • Conducting videos: o Three excerpts of no more than five minutes each o Footage from within the last three years o Front view of conductor o Contrasting styles o Rehearsal footage (encouraged but not required) o Provided in a digital format – either links to posted clips (e.g. website/YouTube) or access to a digitally shared folder (e.g. Dropbox) ABOUT THE GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY Founded in 1930, the Grand Rapids Symphony is one of the Midwest’s leading orchestral institutions, serving approximately 200,000 individuals annually through performances, education initiatives, and community engagement programs. Nearly half of those served are students, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities. Under the artistic leadership of Music Director Marcelo Lehninger, Principal Pops Conductor Bob Bernhardt, and the Assistant Conductor, for whom a search is currently underway, the Symphony presents a wide range of classical, pops, family, specials, and educational programming. The Symphony collaborates extensively with regional partners, including Opera Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Ballet, Saint Cecilia Music Center, and Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Performances take place primarily at DeVos Performance Hall and Royce Auditorium. Programming to advance the Symphony’s mission and share great music that moves the human soul and enriches the cultural life of West Michigan includes the Grand Rapids Youth Symphony & Classical Orchestra and Grand Rapids Chorus. Led by Dr. Joel Schut, the Grand Rapids Youth Symphony & Classical Orchestra was merged operationally into the Symphony in Fall 2025. The Grand Rapids Chorus is a highly acclaimed 130-voice volunteer Chorus under the leadership of Dr. Pearl Shangkuan and is maintained as a treasured affiliated program to the Symphony. The Symphony employs 52 A-contracted and 25 B and C-contracted musicians over a 40-week season. Administratively, the Symphony currently has a support staff of twenty-three (23) employees (both full and part-time) and five (5) contractors. For more information visit: www.grsymphony.org We are an equal opportunity employer.

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Last month, Shabaka announced his new album Of The Earth and released the singles “A Future Untold” and “Marwa The Mountain.” Now, he’s back with “Eyes Lowered.” “Within the process of compiling my be...

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Just days after the death of Alex Pretti, Bruce Springsteen wrote the protest song 'Streets of Minneapolis,' which denounces ICE and Donald Trump.

In This Issue: Congress Preserves NEA Funding as FY26 Grants Roll Out; Learn Essential Next Steps for Bow Owners; Visa Processing Changes and Challenges; How Will 2026 Charitable Giving Respond to Tax Policy Changes?

Raleigh, North Carolina, Information Processing and Database Coordinator Immediate Opening (January 2026) THE POSITION : The Information Processing and Database Coordinator is responsible for entering data into Archtics (patron database), managing data hygiene, and assisting with projects and campaigns. This position interacts with individual, corporate, and foundation donors to the North Carolina Symphony’s annual fund which supports a $21 million annual operating budget and a $47 million endowment fund. RESPONSIBILITIES: Enter and manage data for all individuals and organizations, including address updates, constituent demographics, biographical information, and relationship links Run data queries to extract information and export data to other software applications and for reports Produce reports and assist with general analysis of data as it relates to fundraising and donor recognition Respond to multiple user requests for database support, information, and reporting Preparation for and work during risk assessment audit and year-end audit to include but not limited to reports, back-up, and analysis Conduct regular data hygiene to ensure data integrity Assist with projects and campaigns, including list pulls, trades, marketing e-blasts, and direct mail initiatives, as well as projects for telemarketing vendors. Update weekly donor and ticket Serve as back-up creating daily accounting batches of incoming pledges, gifts, and pledge payments; apply each to correct donor, campaign, and fund in accordance with department procedures Serve as back-up creating acknowledgement letters for every pledge or gift entered into the database Provide training and usage assistance to staff on Archtics database, including answering questions about standard processes to new users Clerical work such as copying letters and processing mailings Collaborate with colleagues in the Philanthropy and Marketing Departments and attend team meetings, as necessary Cover responsibilities of Database Manager and Fulfillment Manager when that person is on vacation or sick leave Back-up HR and Business Systems Director with IT, phone systems and office supplies when that person is on vacation or sick leave. Attend and work out of office events as necessary, to include weekends and evenings. Provide related assistance as required for special projects. The duties listed above are not all inclusive. The person in this position is expected to perform other work-related duties as assigned even though they may not be considered primary duties. CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously Strong data entry skills using a database management system Excellent written, oral, and people skills The ability to handle confidential information with appreciation for the importance of protection of the privacy of donors and prospects is vital Ability to create and run reports and assist in analyzing data and information Excellent mathematical and computer skills as well as proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel are required. Experience creating PivotTables is strongly desired Accuracy and impeccable attention to detail are essential. The ability to manage confidential information with appreciation for the importance of protection of the privacy of donors and prospects is vital Excellent data entry and typing skills with proficiency in Microsoft Access and donor databases Team-oriented, flexible, positive, personable, responsive and willing to learn Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner Must be able to support and implement the mission, vision, and values of the North Carolina Symphony Undergraduate degree with at least two years of experience in the non-profit field. OTHER CONISDERATIONS:   This is a full-time salaried position based in the Triangle region of North Carolina. The salary is $42,000 - $48,000 annually. The benefits package includes health insurance through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, long-term disability coverage, life insurance, an employee assistance program and voluntary vision and dental insurance. Enrollers in our optional 403(b) retirement plan receive an employer match and our Health Savings Account offering provides a bi-annual employer contribution. Because driving between worksites and to various locations may be a central function of the position, administrative staff must maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation. Applicants must be authorized to legally work in the United States.   TO APPLY: Applicants are requested to send resume and cover letter to humanresources@ncsymphony.org and reference Information Processing and Database Coordinator in the subject line. Three references will be requested from all candidates invited to interview for this position. Compensation is competitive and negotiable, commensurate with experience. No phone calls, please. Application Deadline: February 13, 2026 CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously Strong data entry skills using a database management system Excellent written, oral, and people skills The ability to handle confidential information with appreciation for the importance of protection of the privacy of donors and prospects is vital Ability to create and run reports and assist in analyzing data and information Excellent mathematical and computer skills as well as proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel are required. Experience creating PivotTables is strongly desired Accuracy and impeccable attention to detail are essential. The ability to manage confidential information with appreciation for the importance of protection of the privacy of donors and prospects is vital Excellent data entry and typing skills with proficiency in Microsoft Access and donor databases Team-oriented, flexible, positive, personable, responsive and willing to learn Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner Must be able to support and implement the mission, vision, and values of the North Carolina Symphony Undergraduate degree with at least two years of experience in the non-profit field. This is a full-time salaried position based in the Triangle region of North Carolina. The salary is $42,000 - $48,000 annually. The benefits package includes health insurance through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, long-term disability coverage, life insurance, an employee assistance program and voluntary vision and dental insurance. Enrollers in our optional 403(b) retirement plan receive an employer match and our Health Savings Account offering provides a bi-annual employer contribution.

With the punk rockers performing at the opening ceremony and Bad Bunny headlining the halftime show, the game could threaten the MAGA agenda.

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With my artistry, my flute playing, I am always practicing something.