We are looking for people who want to be part of building the next chapter of increased impact, growth, and sustainability for The Arlington Chorale and its youth program, “Performers with Purpose.”
The Chorale hopes to add up to five new members to its Board of Directors (Board). The Chorale is also seeking a new Board Secretary.
Chorale Members, their family and friends, people from all parts of the Arlington community and the DMV, and supporters of the performing arts are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage expressions of interest from people of color, individuals living with disabilities, people early in their careers, and LGBTQ+ persons. While the Chorale is growing in terms of resources and staff, the Board is a working board. We seek people who take a volunteer commitment seriously and are willing to donate their time and skills to support the Chorale. We welcome all applications and look for a good fit with the Core Values of The Arlington Chorale, including:
- Commitment to musical excellence - The Arlington Chorale is an auditioned chorus.
- Inclusion - we want to create a safe space for our singers and audiences. The Chorale strives to be both affordable and accessible for all.
- Service - we expect chorus and board members to volunteer their time and talents to support the activities of the Chorale.
- Community - we are a source of artistic support for our members, and we thrive on a strong connection with each other. We see music as a vital way to reach out to and connect with our community.
We have a particular need for Board members with expertise in fundraising, grant writing, diversity/equity/inclusion, youth outreach, marketing/communications, legal, finance/accounting, and event management. But above all, we value your time, talent, and dedication.
What Board Members Do: Under the Chorale’s Bylaws, the Board of Directors is responsible for the Chorale’s overall leadership, management, and operation. The Board advises, governs, and financially supports the Chorale. The Board’s responsibilities include:
- Developing, implementing, and overseeing policies and procedures;
- Adopting the annual budget and providing general financial management;
- Establishing and participating in appropriate Committees to support the Chorale;
- Approving the selection, retention and compensation of the Artistic Director and other staff or contractors;
- Ensuring the Chorale fulfills all applicable legal requirements;
- Engaging with the community and local government on behalf of the Chorale;
- Promoting the Chorale to key constituencies, including businesses, community groups and individuals;
- Fundraising and conducting outreach to existing and new donors to support the Chorale; and
- Working with Chorale staff, contractors, and Committee volunteers to promote the Chorale and further its mission.
What We Expect: Board members need to participate actively in Chorale activities and advance its mission. Their Board service should be one of their top three volunteer activities. They need to:
- Prepare for, attend, and participate in Board, committee, and membership meetings and up to two special events per fiscal year (the Board typically meets six (6) times per year, exclusive of Committee meetings and the annual membership meeting);
- Promote and attend the Chorale’s concerts (if not a singing member);
- Communicate and advance the Chorale’s mission and programs to the community;
- Understand the Chorale’s finances, budget, financial resources, and legal requirements; follow the Chorale’s policies and procedures;
- Serve on Board Committees; and support the Chorale through their contributions of talent, time, and financial support. Because the Chorale currently has only part-time administrative independent contractors and no employees, the Board members, through its Committees, help market concerts, auditions, and special events, manage/support fundraising campaigns, including special event fundraisers; and provide logistical support for concerts, rehearsals, and special events.
- Additionally, Board members should contribute to the Chorale financially, at a level commensurate to their personal and life circumstances.
Who Can Serve: Chorale Members and residents of the DMV are eligible to serve on the Board. The (singing) Chorale Members elect the Board members at our Annual Meeting, held in June of each year, at the close of the concert season. Board members are elected to three-year terms, beginning on July 1 of that year and ending on June 30 of the third year after (e.g., the term of a Board member who started on July 1, 2025, would expire on June 30, 2028). Board members can serve up to two consecutive three-year terms.
What’s In It For You: Serving on the Board of the Chorale gives you real insight on what it takes to run a small but growing non-profit arts organization. You can exercise or further develop your management, administrative, policy, and advocacy skills. You get to know Chorale members and build relationships in the Arlington community. Above all, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you are helping move the Chorale forward and contributing to your community, building on the hard work of all those who came before you—many of whom still sing with the Chorale.
Please indicate interest by no later than May 1, 2026. The election will be held at the Annual Meeting of the Chorale to be held on June 1, 2025.
