Providing development and leadership opportunities for new and emerging artists.

Application Deadline: June 15, 2025

We are now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Neufeld Emerging Artists Program.

Together with the Artistic Director, successful candidates design a program that addresses goals in conducting, rehearsal leadership, choral arranging, curating programs, and solo work, and through mentoring meetings with Charlene Pauls.

Positions

Successful applicants will have some experience as an Emerging Choral Conductor OR have completed significant vocal training as an Emerging Singer.

Specific skills development will be provided for the Emerging Conductor and Emerging Singer, with overlapping development opportunities provided for all successful candidates.

Emerging Choral Conducting Candidate – The ideal candidate is near or has completed an undergraduate music degree with conducting experience. This is an ideal position for candidates interested in pursuing a Master’s or Doctorate program in Conducting.

Emerging Singing Candidate – The ideal candidate is near or has completed an undergraduate music degree with solo and ensemble singing experience. This is an ideal position for candidates who are interested in pursuing both solo and high-level ensemble singing careers.

Workshops

New this year, the Emerging Artists Program will feature a series of workshops with industry leaders to provide additional mentorship opportunities about various aspects of a young artist’s career.

Topics will include:

  • Score Preparation and Conducting Gesture
  • Arts Management and Marketing
  • Writing Grant Applications
  • Working with a Collaborative Pianist
  • Concert Production

Additional workshops will be scheduled based on the interests of the candidates:

  • Conducting Masterclass with Guest Clinician
  • Financial Management for Artists/ Taxes
  • Resume Prep/ Portfolio Prep
  • Commissioning a New Work
  • Arranging/composing for choirs
  • How to navigate the Choral Experience vs. the Soloist Experience

Successful Candidates will also have the opportunity to perform or provide leadership at the following events:

  • Guelph Chamber Choir “SingOUT” Appearances in the Community
  • Donor Appreciation and Industry Networking Evening (October 2026)
  • Guelph Youth Music Workshop, March 2026 (tentative date)
  • Potential Rehearsal Leadership in preparation of Mozart Requiem (April 4, 2026 performance)

Honorarium

This program offers an honorarium of $40 per rehearsal and $80 per concert – approximately $1200 – $1500 for the September to May season, assuming full participation.

Rehearsals are Mondays from 7:15-9:45 pm at Harcourt United Church (87 Dean St.).

Successful applicants will be expected to attend all rehearsals and concerts and to arrive at rehearsals with repertoire prepared.

Apply Now!

Download the full information package and submit your application to Dr. Charlene Pauls by June 15, 2025.