Artistic Director (f/m/x)
Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ is an open and welcoming venue in Amsterdam dedicated to contemporary music, including classical, electronic, jazz, and world music. Through our adventurous programming, we aim to make as many people as possible feel at home and welcome at Muziekgebouw, and to ensure they feel a connection to the programming, the audience, and the people who work here.
Building on our adventurous programming profile, which centers on contemporary music, our ambition is to make the Muziekgebouw even more of a hub for innovation in music culture: for today’s audiences, musicians, and creators. A venue of national and international renown, but above all one that belongs to and serves the city. A place where talent can flourish and where there is room for a wide variety of music and audiences.
About the role
To bring this vision to life, we are seeking an Artistic Director. In this role, you will work with the members of the programming committee to develop the Muziekgebouw’s artistic vision and strategy. You will implement the artistic policy and translate it into annual and multi-year plans as well as grant applications. You will personally program a significant portion of the concerts and festivals. You will ensure the quality and objectives of the Muziekgebouw’s programming and implement projects that attract new audiences to the Muziekgebouw, including from neighborhoods we currently have less reach in (such as Amsterdam North, Southeast, and New West). With your strong vision for music, you will connect the Muziekgebouw to the city and the international network.
Beyond our expectations
- You approach contemporary and adventurous music from a distinctly creative and socially conscious perspective;
- You know what it’s like to work at a cultural performing arts venue as the head programmer/artistic director;
- You have a deep passion for culture and speak the language of musicians and artists;
- You have a relevant, cross-genre network of contacts both internationally and nationally;
- You will ensure that our programming content is optimally tailored to reach a large and diverse audience;
- You combine an artistic and creative vision with a solid business foundation;
- You have a deep understanding of the city of Amsterdam in all its diversity;
- You are open-minded, proactive, bold, and determined;
- As a strong networker, you know how to foster inspiring collaborations both internally and externally;
- With a keen eye for diversity and inclusion, you are the person who will strengthen our organization from that perspective.
About your role in the organization
In this role, as an artistic visionary, you will have complete freedom to shape the programming in line with our ambitions and artistic profile. You will report to the Executive Director. You will serve as chair and driving force of the programming committee and, in that role, will be responsible for the programming and the programming budget. In close consultation with the Executive Director, you will lead the programmers. You will be part of the Muziekgebouw management team.
About what we have to offer
- A role that makes a real difference, where you foster artistic diversity. You’ll truly make a difference by taking the Muziekgebouw to the next level in a sustainable way—in terms of music, audiences, and artists.
- A close-knit program team and dedicated colleagues who are a pleasure to work with.
- Work in the architecturally stunning Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ, home to the most flexible and quietest concert hall in Europe.
- Attractive benefits package, including flexible work schedules, opportunities for professional development and training, and the chance to attend concerts both in-house and elsewhere.
- A salary in accordance with Scale 9 of the Dutch Performing Arts Collective Bargaining Agreement (www.caonederlandsepodia.nl). The position includes an excellent pension plan, vacation pay, and a year-end bonus.
Interested?
You can apply by sending your resume and cover letter or video to sollicitatie@muziekgebouw.nl. If you’d like to learn more first, please call or email Boudewijn Berentsen, Managing Director: boudewijnberentsen@muziekgebouw.nl, 020-7882013. More information about the organization can be found at www.muziekgebouw.nl.
The Muziekgebouw values inclusion and a diverse workforce. By making room for different talents and perspectives, we are building a welcoming environment for everyone who works with us. Your talent matters more than your gender, background, disability, age, or sexual orientation. We’re eager to learn more about you, your personal motivation, and how you can contribute to our team.
