Renaissance: Rhythm Section Director (Part-Time)

Purpose of Position and Scope of Responsibility:

The Rhythm Section Director provides musical leadership, instruction, and development for the Renaissance rhythm section, including drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and related instrumentation.

Working under the direction of the Executive Director of Renaissance, this role is responsible for cultivating a cohesive, high-level rhythm section capable of supporting multiple ensembles within the Renaissance program. The Director leads rehearsals, provides technical and stylistic instruction, and ensures musical consistency across a wide range of genres and performance settings.

This position emphasizes musical excellence, ensemble cohesion, and student development, with limited administrative and travel responsibilities.

Under the direct supervision of Executive Director of Renaissance

Responsible for up to 26 hours a week

Principal Accountabilities/Responsibilities:

• Provides musical leadership for Renaissance rhythm section musicians by directing rehearsals and offering instruction across drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and related instruments, while developing ensemble cohesion, timing, groove, and stylistic consistency.
• Coaches and mentors student musicians in technique, musicianship, professionalism, preparation, and ensemble performance through both individual and group instruction. Exercises independent judgment in assessing musical needs, instructional priorities, and performance readiness.
• Collaborates with Renaissance ensemble directors and staff to prepare rhythm section musicians to effectively support multiple ensembles and performance settings, including Choir, Resound, Bluegrass, Country Band, and other Renaissance groups.
• Assists with musical preparation for rehearsals and performances, including coordination of rhythm section parts, stylistic interpretation, and support of genre authenticity across a variety of musical styles represented within Renaissance.
• Works collaboratively with the Executive Director and ensemble leadership to support musical direction, program continuity, and consistent performance standards across Renaissance productions and events.
• Supports recruitment, development, and retention of rhythm section musicians while contributing to the long-term growth and strengthening of the Renaissance program's musical infrastructure.
• Contributes to a positive, professional, and team-oriented environment that promotes excellence, adaptability, and collaboration among students and staff.
• Performs related accountabilities and responsibilities as required or assigned in support of Renaissance operations.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge/Education

Experience

High School Diploma

Strong proficiency in one or more rhythm section instruments; broad understanding of contemporary rhythm section performance (worship, commercial, acoustic styles); ability to teach and lead student musicians effectively

Desired Qualifications

Knowledge/Education

Experience

College Degree

Experience performing at a high professional level (touring, recording, or major artist collaboration); Ability to work effectively with college-aged musicians in a collaborative environment

Physical Requirements:

Work requires the physical demands of standing, bending, lifting, stooping or performing other work requiring light physical exertion (up to 30 pounds) on an occasional basis (up to 15% of time) and frequent walking; or moderate physical exertion (up to 50 pounds) on an intermittent basis (not a routine part of the job).

Environmental Conditions:

Work is performed under basically normal working conditions as in a standard office environment.