Orchestra Librarian
Introducing The Ottawa Pops Orchestra
The Ottawa Pops Orchestra (OPO) is dedicated to making orchestral music accessible, engaging, and relevant for today’s audiences. Through dynamic programming and immersive concert experiences, OPO brings well-loved and unexpected works to life, welcoming audiences of all backgrounds—including many who are attending their first-ever live orchestral performance.
Our approach is casual but artistically uncompromising. We believe in fostering a welcoming environment for musicians and audiences alike, whether they are seasoned concertgoers or first-time attendees.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The Ottawa Pops Orchestra values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including but not limited to Indigenous, Black, and Persons of Colour (IBPoC), members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and persons with disabilities.
Job Title: Music Librarian
Employment Type: Part-time, Annual Contract
Job Category: Arts & Culture, Orchestra Administration
Open Positions: 1
Posting Date: April 1, 2025
Closing Date: June 8, 2025
Salary: 20$/h - $10,000 Annual Contract
Working Hours: Part-time, flexible schedule (remote with occasional on-site needs)
Job Reports To: Artistic Director
Job Summary
The Orchestra Librarian plays a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of OPO’s music library. This position is responsible for procuring, preparing, organizing, and distributing music for rehearsals and performances. The librarian works closely with the Artistic and Music Directors, musicians, and guest artists to maintain high-quality performance materials, adhering to copyright regulations and ensuring accessibility for all players.
Part of this contract position is posted on the Young Canada Works website.
Key Responsibilities
Music Procurement & Preparation
Work with the Artistic and Music Directors to plan and acquire music for each season.
Research availability, pricing, and procurement options for sheet music, including licensing agreements.
Secure rental materials, ensure timely delivery, and oversee the return process in compliance with licensing and copyright laws.
Prepare and distribute music with appropriate markings (bowings, cuts, transpositions, etc.) for musicians before rehearsals.
Organize and maintain OPO’s library of scores and parts, both physical and digital.
Assist with arrangements and transcriptions as required for programming needs.
Adapt and prepare scores to fit the ensemble’s instrumentation and performance requirements.
Concert, Rehearsal & Audition Support
Ensure that all music is correctly formatted and distributed in a timely manner.
Attend select rehearsals to address any music-related issues, such as missing parts, page turns, or errata.
Collect, organize, and return music after performances.
Coordinate instrumentation and distribution of music with the Personnel Manager.
Prepare music for all auditions and assist at auditions as needed.
Library Maintenance & Administration
Maintain accurate records of OPO’s music holdings and rental agreements.
Ensure compliance with Canadian copyright laws, reporting performance details to ENTANDEM and SOCAN or other licensing bodies as required.
Assist with budgeting for music rentals, purchases, and related expenses.
Coordinate with musicians and staff to address any library-related concerns.
Qualifications & Skills
Education: Undergraduate degree in Music or a related field preferred but not required.
Experience: Prior experience as an orchestra librarian or in a similar administrative role is an asset.
Musical Knowledge: Strong familiarity with orchestral repertoire, score reading, and musical notation.
Organization & Attention to Detail: Ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and maintain meticulous records.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google suite, and music notation software (Dorico, Finale, Sibelius) is an asset.
Knowledge of Copyright & Licensing: Understanding of Canadian copyright laws and performance rights organizations.
Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work collaboratively with conductors, musicians, and production teams in complex environments.
Facility in both official languages is an asset
Who Can Apply
The Ottawa Pops Orchestra welcomes applicants residing in Canada. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and a brief statement of interest info@ottawapopsorchestra.ca of interest by June 9, 2025.
