Volunteer Orchestra Librarian

The Brookline Symphony Orchestra (a 501(c)(3) organization) seeks a volunteer librarian. The Orchestra Librarian plays a vital role in the smooth operation of the orchestra by managing sheet music procurement and distribution. This position ensures that musicians receive accurate, organized, and timely music for rehearsals and performances, contributing directly to the ensemble’s artistic success. The orchestra generally has five (5) concert cycles per season, with rehearsals running from September through June.

Key Responsibilities:

• Music Procurement:
  • Source and obtain scores and parts through purchase, rental, or borrowing.
  • Coordinate with the Music Director on repertoire and editions.
• Music Preparation:
  • Coordinate with Music Director, Concertmaster, and other string section leaders to ensure all parts are properly marked with bowings, cuts, and other notations.
  • Ensure all music is appropriately formatted, marked, and bound for use during performances. Collaborate with section leaders to address specific notational or technical requirements for players, ensuring clarity and consistency.
• Music Distribution:
  • Scan music parts and store on a shared web folder (Google Drive) prior to each concert cycle.
  • Physically distribute music to musicians ahead of first rehearsal of each cycle; make copies of music available to substitute players as necessary throughout the cycles.
  • Maintain a sign-out system to track distributed parts.
• Library Management:
  • Maintain the orchestra’s music library, including filing and preserving scores and parts.
  • Ensure prompt return of rented or borrowed materials.
• Rehearsal & Performance Support:
  • Be available during key rehearsals and concerts to manage last-minute music needs or emergencies.
  • Communicate regularly with the Music Director, Personnel and Operations Manager, and musicians.

Qualifications:

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Comfortable with basic computer applications (e.g., PDFs, Google Drive, spreadsheet tools).
• Knowledge of the orchestra instruments and orchestra setup.
• Prior experience in a library setting is a plus, but not required.