The YMF Debut Orchestra Music Director and Conductor post is one of the most prestigious training positions available to young conductors. A three-year position, this opportunity gives one conductor (selected through national auditions) the opportunity to plan, rehearse, and conduct a series of six concerts per season: 2 small chamber orchestra, 2 mid-size orchestra concerts, 1 symphonic orchestra, and a special performance at YMF’s annual Gala Benefit. Additional special events & outreach concerts may be scheduled throughout the year, based on consultation with the Executive Director and Programs Director.

The Music Director & Conductor reports to the YMF Executive Director and YMF Programs Director, working alongside the Programs Director and Music Advisory Board to create each season’s programming and budget, conduct yearly auditions, write program notes, direct up to three outreach performances around Los Angeles County and represent YMF at numerous social and artistic events.

The conductor receives a BMI Foundation Inc./Lionel Newman Conducting Study Grant and a YMF Conducting Grant. This is one of the few programs available where the most talented young conductors in the world are paired with one of the premier youth orchestras in the nation, and given the opportunity to plan, rehearse, and conduct a full orchestra season.

The current Music Director of the Debut Orchestra is Sean Newhouse.

Open to conductors of exceptional professional promise and ability who reside in the United States, who will not have reached their 27h birthday by June 30th of the year of the auditions, and who are not yet under professional management.

In 2008, YMF will be holding auditions for the next Music Director who will begin their tenure in July 2008. YMF invites accomplished, talented young conductors (who do not currently have professional representation) to apply.

Information about the position, audition requirements, and applications can be found by clicking here.