Colton Conducting Fellowship - New Jersey Symphony

The 2026-27 New Jersey Symphony Colton Conducting Fellowship is an excellence-based program designed to support early-career orchestral conductors whose personal backgrounds and lived experiences bring perspectives not typically represented in professional orchestras.

The Colton Conducting Fellow reports to the Vice President of Artistic Planning & Operations and the Music Director. Primary duties include rehearsing and conducting select performances as assigned, serving as cover conductor for rehearsals and performances, and acting as a representative of the New Jersey Symphony during other duties as assigned at designated concert and non-concert events. All primary duties are as assigned by the Music Director and Vice President of Artistic Planning.

The Colton Conducting Fellow will receive mentorship from Music Director Xian Zhang, the orchestra’s Artistic Advisory Committee, and artistic staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Serve as cover conductor for a minimum of 12 weeks of Classical subscription concerts plus other concert programs as assigned. This includes personal preparation of all scores and preparedness to step in to replace the scheduled conductor on short notice, as well as conducting off-stage ensembles as required by repertory, serving as score reader for supertitles or other production needs, and listening to rehearsals and performances and consulting with the conductor on balance and other artistic issues.
- Work with Vice President of Artistic Planning & Operations and other NJ Symphony artistic and education staff members as needed to develop programs including Education, Family, Pops, and Community concerts. Rehearse and conduct these programs as assigned, including delivering memorized text. The ability to write and deliver comments clearly and effectively from the stage for various concert formats is essential.
- Attend various concert and non-concert events representing the New Jersey Symphony. Participate as direct