Artistic Director Position Summary
Columbus Rings, an advanced community handbell choir in Columbus, Ohio, is seeking a part-time Artistic Director for our 2026-2027 season. Founded in 2018, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Columbus Rings works to increase awareness, knowledge, and skill in the musical art of handbell ringing through education of both members and the public. This mission is supported by performing concerts and doing outreach activities in the community. The ensemble regularly performs advanced repertoire, most often at Levels 3–4 with occasional Level 5 selections, and commits to maintaining this level of musicianship while continually striving for greater artistic growth and musical excellence. The Artistic Director leads the full 5-6 octave Columbus Rings ensemble and coordinates the smaller six-ringer ensemble, Ring Out!
Artistic Director Responsibilities
Musical Leadership
- Plan and oversee the ensemble’s artistic programs, including repertoire selection, concert themes, and programming.
- Maintain high musical standards in a respectful, supportive, and collaborative environment
- Lead organized, engaging weekly rehearsals based on thorough score study and music planning
- Explore partnerships, performances, and collaborations that expand audience engagement and community visibility
- Plan and coordinate with guest musicians
Administration and Development
- Communicate and collaborate regularly with the Board, including participating in Board meetings, contributing to the development of the artistic portion of the annual budget, and providing reports on activities, partnerships, and artistic initiatives as requested
- Assist with grant writing, and cultivate relationships with potential donors and supporters
- Collaborate with group members in their volunteer roles (e.g., gig coordinator, board members, librarian, etc.) as needed to support artistic goals and organizational needs
Desired Qualifications
- Experience directing a musical ensemble, preferably in a community or volunteer setting
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with ringers, board members, audiences, and supporters
- Ability to cultivate and sustain a collaborative, respectful, and supportive ensemble culture
- Preferred: Knowledge of handbell techniques, musical interpretation, and notation
- Preferred: Familiarity with a broad range of handbell repertoire and arranging style
- Artistic leaders from other musical disciplines (choral or instrumental) are encouraged to apply. While it is strongly preferred, handbell experience is not required; the ensemble is willing to support and collaborate with the right candidate.
Time Commitment
- Weekly rehearsals on Sunday evenings; these are held at Worthington United Methodist Church. In the past, this has been from September–May.
- Concerts, as scheduled, throughout the year. In the past, this has included 4-6 Columbus Rings concerts per year, and 6-10 Ring Out! concerts per year.
- Travel with the group and attend the annual Handbell Musicians of America Area 5 Spring Festival
- Occasional Saturday or Sunday extended rehearsals
Compensation
Compensation will be $3,000 per season (Sept-May)
Selection Process
- Applications Accepted through April 19, 2026
- Initial interviews via zoom, May 2026
- Second round of interviews, to include a short full group rehearsal (repertoire and expectations provided in advance), June 2026
- Final Decision by July 2026
All applicants will receive a response to their application no later than June 1st
Columbus Rings 