Trondheim Voices is a groundbreaking Norwegian ensemble of improvising vocalists, operated by the Midtnorsk Jazzsenter. Since its formation in 2001, the ensemble has continuously expanded its collective improvised expression, concert formats, stage presence, and the boundaries of what a vocal ensemble can do. This has been developed through their own projects, collaborations with other artists, and (possibly as the only vocal ensemble in the world) with wireless live electronics (Maccatrol).
Trondheim Voices is a group that performs in various configurations, but with a core selection of 12 improvising soloists who alternate between projects with a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 9 singers. Each member specializes in different types of improvisation, and the unique musicality and timbre of each singer, combined with the group’s collective experiences and methods, result in distinctive musical and theatrical expressions. The work is collective-based. The ensemble is active both on festival and club stages, as well as with site-specific, theatrical, and art-related projects nationally and internationally—please refer to the website (www.trondheimvoices.no) for further details.
An artistic director for Trondheim Voices should:
- Seek and develop new opportunities and concepts based on the artistic potential of the ensemble. This includes identifying potential collaborators, concert formats, contexts, and opportunities for site-specific and interdisciplinary projects, including but not limited to the use of live electronics/Maccatrol. The candidate should have ideas and visions on how to move the ensemble's work forward.
- Safeguard and further develop the collective core competence of the ensemble. This competence is tied to shared experiences developed over a long period in a relatively stable lineup, and also with experienced sound design collaborators.
- Further develop the project portfolio, while also continuing central projects.
- The artistic director should preferably be a performer/singer within the ensemble for a defined number of rehearsal days and projects. The time commitment will be agreed upon in the contract.
- Participate in the administration of the ensemble together with the producer and executive director at Midtnorsk Jazzsenter. The administrative-artistic tasks include long-term planning, writing applications, preparing program descriptions, collaborating with artistic partners, booking and networking in collaboration with the producer, holding meetings with the ensemble, and more.
- Participate in board meetings (4 per year), artistic council meetings (2-4 per year), and other meetings that are important for the operation of the ensemble.
The position is a fixed-term contract for 3 years, with the possibility of extension. Honorarium to be agreed upon.
Application deadline: January 15, 2025.
Please send your application and CV via email to: post (AT) mnj.no
For more information about the position:
Bjørn Willadsen, Executive Director, Midtnorsk Jazzsenter
