Now Hiring Music Librarian
About the Position
The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra (ASO) Librarian is responsible for the organization, preparation, distribution, and maintenance of all music used by the Orchestra. This position is essential to the artistic success of the ASO, ensuring that musicians and the Music Director have accurate, properly prepared, and performance-ready materials for all concerts and rehearsals.
This is an independent contractor position, paid based on billed hours. While the Librarian determines the methods and schedule used to complete tasks, they are responsible for ensuring that all deliverables are completed accurately and on time for each concert cycle.
The Librarian reports to the Executive Director and works closely with the Music Director, Orchestra Personnel Manager, Patron Services Manager, and ASO Musicians coordinating with staff to ensure all materials and tasks are completed for each concert.
Responsibilities
Music Acquisition & Preparation
Rent, purchase, or borrow all music required for ASO concerts from publishers, libraries, and institutions.
Research and select appropriate editions of scores and parts in consultation with the Music Director or conductors.
Ensure legal and licensed use of all music, including rental, purchase, and copyright compliance.
Prepare string parts, including marking bowings and coordinating with string principals for original markings.
Proofread all scores and parts, correcting errata, verifying page turns, rehearsal numbers, and cuts.
Photocopy, collate, and bind practice parts and other supplemental materials as required.
Folder & Materials Management
Prepare and assemble music folders for each concert, ensuring all materials are ready at least two weeks prior to the first rehearsal.
Include rehearsal orders, string rotation, musician vouchers, and any other materials in each folder.
Mail, scan, or email parts to musicians who reside outside Anchorage or the Mat-Su Valley.
Manage the safe transport, storage, and retrieval of folders and performance materials.
Rehearsal & Performance Support
Attend the first rehearsal of each concert cycle with all folders, extra parts, and backup materials.
Remain available during this rehearsal to resolve music-related issues and ensure all musicians have the correct parts.
Support the Music Director as needed to confirm that all players have the materials required for the performance.
Collect folders, scores, and parts after performances, checking music stands and the stage to ensure nothing is missing.
Support special requests from soloists or guest conductors regarding editions, cuts, or markings.
Library & Catalog Maintenance
Maintain an up-to-date catalogue of all music owned by the ASO, including on-site and stored materials.
Return all rental and borrowed materials; stamp, number, catalogue, and file purchased music.
Preserve and archive materials for long-term use, ensuring proper storage and organization.
Maintain an accurate season log of all works and composers performed, used for reporting to licensing agencies such as ASCAP and BMI.
Manage invoices, shipping records, and any other administrative or financial documentation related to music acquisition.
Additional Responsibilities
Assist the Marketing and Public Relations Director with proofreading program page repertoire information for concert programs.
Collaborate with staff on special projects related to concert production, library digitization, or archival initiatives.
Required Qualifications
Ability to read music fluently.
Ability to understand and interpret bowings and other musical markings/notation.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Experience marking, preparing, and collating orchestral music parts.
Knowledge of musical editions, performance markings, and standard orchestral practices.
Proficiency with computers and office software.
Access to reliable transportation for transporting music folders and materials.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with musicians, conductors, and staff.
Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple concert cycles simultaneously.
Compensation & Benefits
This is an independent contractor position.
Base pay: $30 per hour.
The Librarian receives two complimentary tickets to each ASO concert.
Application Instructions
Please submit the following materials:
Cover Letter (maximum one page) – Describe your experience as a music librarian or in orchestral/performing arts settings. Highlight relevant skills in music preparation and organization.
Résumé or CV – Include your professional experience, education, and relevant technical skills.
References – Please provide professional references upon request.
Email Applications to: AnchorageSymphonyApplications@Gmail.com
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, ethnicity, veteran status, or national origin. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
