Detroit Opera announces the following audition:

Second Horn | May 7, 2025

Position to begin at the start of the 2025-2026 season.

PLEASE NOTE:

Winning applicants must be legally eligible for employment in the United States. If an applicant secures a contract, valid immigration status and work authorization must be secured 8 weeks before applicant’s expected start date. Maintaining valid immigration status and work authorization throughout employment with Detroit Opera will be the responsibility of any winning applicant.

Applications for this position are now closed.

A limited number of applicants will be invited to audition due to time constraints. Applicants will receive notice of invitation via email by late February, early March 2025.

A $100 audition deposit will be required from invited applicants and will be returned upon arrival to the audition. Audition deposit checks will be shredded for those who cancel by the deadline of April 18, 2025.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MUSIC EXCERPTS AND REPERTOIRE LISTS

Detroit Opera audition committee reserves the right to dismiss immediately any candidate not meeting the highest professional standards at these auditions.

Musicians of the Detroit Opera Orchestra are members of the A F of M, Detroit Local 5.

Detroit Opera is an equal opportunity employer.

The Detroit Opera Orchestra performs approximately 4-6 productions per season: a combination of opera, ballet and concerts with an average of 7 services per production. The Detroit Opera Orchestra has a minimum service guarantee of 45 services per season.

The Detroit Opera season typically runs from October to December and February/March to May.

Detroit Opera 2024-25 Season Rates

$201.29/Rehearsal

$218.04/Dress rehearsal

$267.53/Performance

Principal Premium 25%

Doubling 20%

A.F.M. pension fund 11.99%

Detroit Opera announces the following audition:

Section Violin | May 9, 2025

Position to begin at the start of the 2025-2026 season.

PLEASE NOTE:

Winning applicants must be legally eligible for employment in the United States. If an applicant secures a contract, valid immigration status and work authorization must be secured 8 weeks before applicant’s expected start date. Maintaining valid immigration status and work authorization throughout employment with Detroit Opera will be the responsibility of any winning applicant.

To apply for an audition, please complete the application linked below:

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION

Please apply only if you are serious about attending the audition.

Resume Deadline: April 4, 2025

A $100 audition deposit will be required from invited applicants and will be returned upon arrival to the audition. Audition deposit checks will be shredded for those who cancel by the deadline of April 25, 2025.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MUSIC EXCERPTS AND REPERTOIRE LISTS

Detroit Opera audition committee reserves the right to dismiss immediately any candidate not meeting the highest professional standards at these auditions.

Musicians of the Detroit Opera Orchestra are members of the A F of M, Detroit Local 5.

Detroit Opera is an equal opportunity employer.

The Detroit Opera Orchestra performs approximately 4-6 productions per season: a combination of opera, ballet and concerts with an average of 7 services per production. The Detroit Opera Orchestra has a minimum service guarantee of 45 services per season.

The Detroit Opera season typically runs from October to December and February/March to May.

Detroit Opera 2024-25 Season Rates

$201.29/Rehearsal

$218.04/Dress rehearsal

$267.53/Performance

Principal Premium 25%

Doubling 20%

A.F.M. pension fund 11.99%

Chorus auditions for the 2024-2025 season are closed.  

To receive information regarding future audition opportunities, please email resume & headshot to auditions@detroitopera.org.

Vocalists of the Detroit Opera Chorus are members of the American Guild of Musical Artists

Work Schedule:   Weekend and evenings required, variable schedule dependent on the performance calendar. 

Pay Rate: $20/hr. 

How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org  

Position Summary: 

The Box Office Associate (BOA) is responsible for assisting patrons with all ticketing and purchase needs of Detroit Opera (DO) and the Detroit Opera House (DOH). Possessing strong customer services skills, the BOA serves patrons efficiently, accurately, and politely at all points of contact. The BOA acts as a steward of DO and helps convey DO’s season and the company’s mission to patrons and the interested public. The BOA understands and ensures the highest level of patron satisfaction.  

Specific Responsibilities: 

• Work during theatre box office hours and show times, selling tickets, answering phones and service internal and external customers.  

• Greet and serve all patrons in a positive, supportive, friendly, and polite manner in accordance with DO’s patron-centered culture of excellence. 

• Sell subscription and single tickets to all Opera and Dance events by phone and in person in the box office.  

• Work with Box Office Manager to monitor sales. 

• Assist customers with questions regarding internet ticket purchases. 

• Perform data entry of phone/mail/telemarketing/ ticket orders using box office ticketing system. 

• Manage patron concerns on behalf of DO, assuring each patron a timely and thoughtful response, and escalate complaints or concerns to other box office staff when necessary. 

• Assist with printing will call tickets prior to show time. 

• Monitor the box office phone system for both internal and external guests. 

• Through positive working relationships with staff, maintain knowledge of current and recent DO events and activities. 

Required Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or GED 

• Exceptional interpersonal skills, both in person and by phone, in order to effectively communicate with patrons, staff members, volunteers, performers, other DO constituents, and the general public. 

• Demonstrated customer service skills.   

• Possess the ability to work well in an extremely fast-paced, ever-changing environment. 

• Ability to problem-solve and think quickly on one’s feet. 

• High degree of flexibility in response to daily shifting priorities. 

• Ability to understand diverse perspectives and acknowledge the significance of differences and complexities in background, cultures, values and viewpoints as the foundation for an inclusive environment. 

Desired Qualifications: 

• 1-year or more of box office or ticket sales experience. 

• Experience with Tessitura and/or Ticketmaster preferred. 

• Experience working in an opera or ballet company, or knowledge of standard opera and dance repertoire highly preferred. 

Essential functions/physical demands: 

• The person in this position works a flexible schedule, including some weekends and holidays, in accordance with DO’s box office needs.  

• The person in this position speaks on the telephone for long periods of time. 

• The person in this position remains in a standing position for periods of time.  

Application Deadline: 

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled. 

Additional Information: 

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission. 

How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org 

Position Summary: 

The Chorus Master / Music Administrator is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of musical excellence and artistic quality for the Detroit Opera professional chorus. Reporting to the Chief Programming Officer and working under the guidance of the Artistic and Music Directors, this position combines artistic leadership with administrative oversight. The incumbent will plan and direct chorus rehearsals, oversee chorus recruitment, manage budgets and scheduling in collaboration with production staff, and supervise orchestra support functions to support Detroit Opera’s musical and organizational goals. 

Responsibilities: 

Chorus Master: 

Audition & Selection – 

• Plan and conduct chorus auditions; select and contract chorus members in line with artistic and budgetary goals. 

• Maintain an updated roster of available chorus members for immediate and future productions. 

Rehearsals & Musical Preparation – 

• Design and lead efficient music rehearsals, ensuring mastery of pronunciation, diction, style, and interpretation. 

• Oversee or create practice materials (e.g., audio tracks, language guides, translations) to support chorus learning. 

• Conduct backstage/offstage chorus segments and serve as rehearsal conductor in the absence of the principal conductor. 

• Collaborate with stage management and production teams to integrate choral staging and maintain high musical and dramatic standards. 

Union & Contract Compliance – 

• Adhere to union regulations (e.g., AGMA or equivalent) regarding work hours, breaks, and compensation. 

• Participate in chorus-related budgeting to ensure responsible management of resources. 

Orchestra Administration: 

Personnel Management – 

• Supervise the Orchestra Personnel Manager to ensure effective communication, scheduling, and union compliance. 

• Partner with the Music Director on repertoire adjustments, orchestration needs, and special requests. 

Music Library Oversight – 

• Direct the Orchestra Librarian’s distribution and preparation of scores, parts, and other necessary musical materials. 

Music Administration & Production Coordination: 

Production Planning & Collaboration – 

• Collaborate with the Artistic Administrator, Stage Management, and Production teams to coordinate rehearsal schedules and production timelines. 

• Liaise with guest and staff conductors on cuts, editions, and other musical decisions. 

• Attend planning meetings to ensure choral and orchestral needs align with the overall production vision. 

Administrative & Technological Oversight – 

• Maintain efficient internal processes for scheduling, distributing scores, and producing practice materials. 

• Provide or coordinate digital resources for remote or offsite rehearsals if necessary. 

• Assist with educational or community outreach initiatives related to choral music as requested.    

Required Qualifications: 

• Choral Conducting Experience: Proven track record in leading professional-level choral ensembles, with knowledge of operatic repertoire and vocal technique. 

• Language & Diction Proficiency: Ability to coach at least one major operatic language (Italian, French, or German) with strong diction and stylistic understanding. 

• Organizational & Time Management: Competence in coordinating multiple schedules, rehearsals, and production deadlines simultaneously. 

• Collaboration & Leadership: Effective communication and team-building skills, fostering a productive work environment for chorus members, staff, and production teams. 

• Budget & Union Experience: Familiarity with budgeting processes and union regulations/contract obligations (e.g., AGMA or similar). 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Education: Advanced degree in Music (Conducting, Vocal Performance, or similar). 

• Keyboard Skills: Piano proficiency for rehearsal and coaching. 

• Supervisory Background: Demonstrated success in leading teams and resolving conflicts. 

• Community Engagement: Interest in or experience with educational outreach and broader community initiatives. 

Physical Demands: 

• Extended Standing/Conducting: Ability to remain on the podium for extended periods. 

• Backstage/Rehearsal Navigation: Possible low-light conditions, crowded areas, and uneven surfaces. 

• Stair & Ladder Use: Occasional need to ascend/descend stairs or ladders. 

• Light Lifting: May lift materials weighing up to 10 pounds (e.g., scores, instruments). 

• Dust/Mold Exposure: Potential exposure to archival materials (may require respirator use). 

Application Deadline: 

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled. 

Additional Information: 

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission. 

Department: Safety and Security

Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Work Schedule: This position maintains a flexible work schedule, and is part of a pool of Crowd Managers, who work various performances/events at the Detroit Opera House.

Salary: $18.00 – $19.00/hr.

How to apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume by email to employment@motopera.org.  Please include how you learned of this position. 

Position Summary

Detroit Opera (DO) is southeast Michigan’s premier venue for opera and dance, and is a contemporary cultural-corner stone of the City of Detroit. Located in the heart of downtown, near Comerica Park, Detroit Opera offers a dynamic work environment. DO Crowd Managers work with the Security Team to provide services designed to ensure the safety of Detroit Opera and the Detroit Opera House patrons, visitors, performers during performances and other events. Through working cohesively with the DO Security and Events teams Crowd Managers work to secure the safety of patrons, visitors, and performers by regulating traffic control, maintaining access to entrances and emergency exits, and performing security screenings—when required.  

Responsibilities

• Regulate traffic by managing the movement of activities and guests  

• Monitor entrances and exits to ensure proper egress, in accordance   
• Observe crowds in order to keep vigilant watch for signs of danger  
• Correspond with the Manager on Duty, Director of Security, and the Manager of Venue Operations to adequately provide emergency care within the existing security plan framework.  
• Ensure security and safety of patrons, visitors, performers, and staff, through adherence to DO security policies   
• Ensure security and safety of the venue, and perform security screening when required  

• Interact with guests attending events, provide information and direction in a positive and friendly manner  

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent  
• Ability to pass state background check 

• Minimum 1 year of experience as a crowd manager or related events management experience 
• Demonstrated customer service skills  

Desired Qualifications

• Security experience 
• Law enforcement experience 
• Crowd control/venue management certification

Essential functions/physical demands

• The person in this position works evenings and weekends, in accordance with the events schedule. 

• The person in this position navigates stairwells, hallways, and other areas of the Detroit Opera House.  
• The person in this position stands for up to 3 hours at a time. 

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.  Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled.

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission. 

Work Schedule:   Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:30pm, plus some nights and weekends.               

Salary Range:  $80,000 – $85,000 Annually 

How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org    

Position Summary: 

The Director of Marketing will be a creative and strategic member of the marketing team, charged with increasing Detroit Opera’s (DO) subscription and single ticket revenues by creating and implementing paid marketing campaigns, social media and digital marketing, and other marketing and promotion initiatives. The candidate should be a mission- and data-driven marketing professional, results-oriented, and a team player.    

Specific Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate on and lead initiatives in the development and implementation of innovative marketing, communications, and sales/service strategies to achieve revenue goals, build the DO brand, promote opera and dance offerings, and raise awareness both locally and nationally of DO programs and achievements.   
• Develop plans and lead messaging decisions for the website, social media, and e-communications programs.    
• In collaboration with the Chief Marketing Officer, set subscription and single ticket revenue goals and marketing strategies. Oversee all campaigns by deploying a mix of paid, direct, digital, social, and influencer marketing.  
• Work directly with all media sales reps and manage media-buying from start to finish (schedules, contracts, deployment of assets, and results tracking). 
• Steward the DO brand, including consistently enforcing company-wide use of graphics standards and style guidelines as well as key organizational messages.    
• Create and deploy audience surveys and other feedback methods  
• Track and monitor single ticket and subscription sales, adjust marketing plans as required, prepare and distribute sales reporting to senior staff and the marketing team 

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, sales, or related degree, or equivalent education and experience.    
• Minimum of five to seven years of experience successfully overseeing marketing and communications functions of a complex organization.   
• Proven ability to build strong brands and increase earned income.   
• Ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines simultaneously  
• Demonstrated communication skills, both written and verbal.    
• Demonstrated experience with marketing communication disciplines and multi-channel campaign design and execution.     
• Proficiency with email marketing, social media platforms, ticketing systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.  
• Ability to understand diverse perspectives and acknowledge the significance of differences and complexities in backgrounds, cultures, values, and viewpoints as the foundation for an inclusive environment.  

Desired Qualifications: 

• Performing arts experience preferred.   
• Experience with Tessitura preferred.    
• Preference for candidates with experience in a subscription-based environment.   
• Management experience in leading a creative team 

Physical Demands/Work Environment: 

• The person in this position occasionally moves materials weighing up to 30 pounds. 
• The person in this position remains in a stationary position for periods of time. 
• The person in this routinely occasionally moves throughout the building. 

Application Deadline: 

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled. 

Additional Information: 

This is a term-limited position for two years, with the possibility of extension based on funding and performance. 

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission. 

Department: Safety and Security

Classification: Part-Time, Non-Exempt

Work Schedule: This position maintains a flexible work schedule, and is part of a pool of Event Medics, who work various performances/events at the Detroit Opera House.

Salary: $20.00/hr.

How to apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume by email to employment@motopera.org.  Please include how you learned of this position.

Position Summary

Detroit Opera (DO) is southeast Michigan’s premier venue for opera and dance, and is a contemporary cultural-corner stone of the City of Detroit. Located in the heart of downtown, near Comerica Park, Detroit Opera offers a dynamic work environment. DO Event Medics work with the Security Team to provide services designed to ensure the health and safety of Detroit Opera and the Detroit Opera House patrons, visitors, performers during performances and other events. Event Medics work to secure the safety of patrons, visitors, and performers by providing immediate medical care to any and all individuals who fall ill, to be vigilant of individuals displaying signs or symptoms of illness, to call for or facilitate communication with emergency first responders, and provide crowd management services for the safety of patrons, visitors, employees and artists.  

Responsibilities

• Immediately respond to all medical emergencies in accordance with the relevant procedures and policies.   

• Observe crowds in order to keep vigilant watch for symptoms and early signs of illness or medical emergencies.  
• Treat symptoms of minor injuries, such as small cuts/scrape, dizziness, nausea, headaches, contacting emergency medical services as needed.     
• Correspond with the Manager on Duty, Director of Security, and the Manager of Venue Operations to adequately provide emergency medical care within the existing security plan framework.  
• Participate in traffic control duties for large events, as needed.   

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent 
• Ability to pass state background check 
• EMT-B license 
• Demonstrated ability to work ethically and dependably 

Desired Qualifications

• EMT-I license or EMT-P license highly preferred 
• Nursing/other health care experience  
• Security experience  
• Crowd manager experience  

Essential functions/physical demands

• The person in this position works evenings and weekends, in accordance with the events schedule. 

• The person in this position navigates stairwells, hallways, and other areas of the Detroit Opera House.  
• The person in this position stands for up to 3 hours at a time. 

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.  Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled.

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission. 

Work Schedule:  June 30, 2025 – August 15, 2025; 25 hours per week 

Stipend:  $3,000 

How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org   

Position Summary  

Detroit Opera (DO) is pleased to offer a summer internship in partnership with Applebaum Family Philanthropy. The Applebaum Internship Program (AIP) is a unique opportunity to enhance leadership, networking, and work skills in a student cohort experience. Students will receive a stipend to participate in an internship with Detroit Opera and engage in a series of educational, interactive and leadership roundtables.  

Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Assist admin and directors with planning, organizing, scheduling, creating documents, responding to emails during Detroit Opera’s Summer Programs: 
• Create and Perform: July 7 – July 18 
• Operetta Remix: July 24 – August 8 
• Assist Education staff during Open Spot residency at Detroit Opera:  August 11-15 
• Note taking, typing, copying, aid in creating memorabilia for DO’s summer program 
• Provide assistance with projects related to the department to which the intern is assigned. 

Required Qualifications/Abilities: 

• Eligible participants are undergraduate/college students currently enrolled in schools based in Southeast Michigan.  
• Students must be in their sophomore year or higher (equivalent).  
• Experience in the theatrical and musical arts preferred: opera, musical theater, instrumental, theatre, vocal and dance 
• Working knowledge of either music, dance, musical theatre, opera, and operetta 
• Excellent written and oral communication skills 
• Computer literacy, with an emphasis in Word, Excel, and Microsoft outlook.  
• Ability to operate a computer and perform office duties i.e. copying, filing, and emblemizing and organizing music books for students. 

Physical Demands/Work Environment: 

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 
• Ability to work in theatre and office environments 
• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds at times. 

Application Deadline: 

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled.  

Additional Information: 

For additional information please visit the following link: Applebaum Fellows | Applebaum Family Philanthropy 

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission.    

Work Schedule:  Based on show schedule, nights and weekends as needed 

Job Type: Seasonal, Salaried 

Salary: Wages set by I.A.T.S.E. collective bargaining agreement 

How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit their resume and cover letter to employment@detroitopera.org   

Position Summary  

The Head Electrician is responsible for overseeing all lighting and electrical aspects of production, ensuring efficient planning, installation, maintenance, and operation of lighting systems. This role collaborates with Lighting Designers and production teams to execute lighting designs while maintaining safety and quality standards.   

Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Analyze, interpret, and implement light plots for productions.  

• Oversee the hanging, focusing, and maintenance of lighting instruments.  

• Plan and execute electrical projects related to scenery, props, and effects.  

• Manage inventory, storage, and maintenance of lighting tools and equipment.  

• Supervise electricians during load-ins, technical rehearsals, performances, and strikes.  

• Ensure work areas are clean, safe, and compliant with safety regulations.  

• Maintain and organize consumables (gels, lamps, fluids, etc.).  

• Program and operate lighting consoles during rehearsals and performances.  

• Troubleshoot and repair lighting equipment as needed.  

• Maintain and update lighting paperwork, including Lightwright documentation.  

• Communicate and coordinate with other production departments to ensure seamless operations. 

• Oversee power distribution for all departments as needed.  

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of lighting trends and technological advancements.  

• Assist with venue maintenance, ensuring the proper function of the house rep plot.  

• Develop and implement necessary lighting upgrades.  

• Facilitate communication between incoming production teams and venue staff. 

Required Qualifications/Abilities: 

• Minimum 4 years of professional experience in theatrical electrics.  

• Strong knowledge of electrical components, wiring, soldering, and lighting systems.  

• Proficiency in contemporary lighting fixtures, power distribution, and programming.  

• Experience with ETC EOS family consoles, dimmer systems, and moving light programming.  

• Ability to manage and lead a team effectively.  

• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills.  

• Proficiency in Vectorworks and Lightwright software desirable  

• Comfortable working at heights (ladders, catwalks, lifts) and lifting up to 50 lbs.  

• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.  

• Familiarity with IATSE labor contracts and theatrical safety standards 

• Ability to understand diverse perspectives and acknowledge the significance of differences and complexities in backgrounds, cultures, values, and viewpoints as the foundation for an inclusive environment.    

Physical Demands/Work Environment: 

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking 

• Ability to work in theatre and office environments 

• Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds at times. 

Application Deadline: 

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.  This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Applications will be reviewed as received throughout the posting period and continue until the position is filled.  

Additional Information: 

Detroit Opera is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and encourages all employees to fully incorporate their diverse backgrounds, skills, and life experiences into their work and towards the fulfillment of the DO mission.