Talent Development Program Manager
Robert W. Woodruff Arts CenterWoodruff Arts Center employees play an integral role in creating and supporting great art and education initiatives at the nation’s third largest arts center. Comprised of three Art Partners—Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and High Museum of Art—there’s a role for everyone at The Woodruff.
Reports to:
Vice President of EducationFLSA:
United States of America (Exempt)Employment Status:
Regular/Full timeManager, Talent Development Program
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
General Summary
Established in 1993, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s (ASO) Talent Development Program (TDP) is one of the first initiatives of its kind among U.S. orchestras. The program identifies and trains highly dedicated 5th through 12th grade student musicians with exceptional potential and passion for classical music – particularly those with obstacles on their path to study. Our mission is to expand opportunities for and to increase the presence of Atlanta-area students among music performance majors in conservatories.
The Manager, Talent Development Program is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the program, collaborating with ASO staff, musicians, volunteers, and TDP students and families to ensure smooth delivery of key events, milestones, and educational outcomes.
Work Schedule
Standard hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm
Evenings and weekends required several times per month for concerts, recitals, and student events
Flexibility in schedule
Primarily in-person, with some opportunity for remote work
Position Responsibilities
Program Vision & Leadership
Uphold the mission and integrity of the TDP; recommend and implement program enhancements to achieve targeted outcomes.
Serve as a spokesperson locally and nationally, building awareness, partnerships, and visibility for the program.
Program Planning & Management
Oversee the annual program cycle, including:
Recruitment, outreach, and marketing initiatives
Auditions and student selection process
Weekly communications with students and families (email, BAND app)
Monthly family meetings and biannual advisory sessions with each family
Weekly lessons during the academic year and instructor payroll
Student performances: TDP Musicale, community recitals, juries, and juried recitals
Guest artist collaborations and concert attendance
Summer festival scholarship program administration
Program Commitment to Inclusion
Ensure program content, partnerships, and student experiences reflect and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Special Projects & Alumni Engagement
Plan and execute unique initiatives such as the Building Bridges Symposium.
Build and maintain a formal alumni network and tracking system.
Collaboration & Team Management
Partner closely with the Vice President of Education & Community Engagement and the Education/Community Engagement team on cross-program initiatives.
Collaborate with ASO departments including Production, Marketing, and Development.
Build strong, respectful relationships with ASO musicians.
Supervise TDP assistants and interns, as applicable.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in music, arts administration, or related field, or equivalent professional experience
2–4 years of experience in ensemble management, orchestral operations, or a similar field; preference for youth program experience
Demonstrated passion for music education and equity in the arts
Detail-oriented and highly organized; able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Strong initiative, problem-solving skills, and clear written/verbal communication
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and database/communication platforms (MailChimp, BAND, etc.)
Team-oriented with strong relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders
Experience playing in an instrumental ensemble preferred
Supervisory experience with staff, interns, or volunteers preferred
Work Environment & Physical Demands
Full-time, exempt position with evening and weekend commitments aligned with student events and performances
Role requires some standing, walking, bending, use of hands, and lifting up to 10 pounds (e.g., music folders, instruments, event supplies)
Work environment is generally moderate in noise level
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions