Project-based Ensemble Tour Manager - US-China Music Institute of the Bard College Conservatory of Music : Job Details

US-China Music Institute of the Bard College Conservatory of Music Red Hook, NY

Performing Arts Public Relations & Multicultural Marketing | Community Outreach | Non Profit | Master of Arts Management, Carnegie Mellon University

The Bard East/West Ensemble (BE/WE), operated by the US-China Music Institute of the Bard College Conservatory of Music (USCMI), is a dynamic music group that brings together the essence of Chinese and Western soundscapes to create a new model of cross-cultural performance. The ensemble aims to combine Eastern and Western musical traditions, performing arrangements and original works with unique instrumentation.

In 2025, BE/WE will be touring both at home and abroad, with a two-week tour in China planned for June of 2025 along with concerts in Boston in May, and in Washington DC in December. To better coordinate the preparation and execution of the upcoming tours, USCMI is creating a new position for a bilingual Tour Manager with relevant experience. This individual will serve as the core point of contact for all tour-related matters, ensuring smooth operation of performances, logistics, and artist coordination.

We are looking for a highly organized and proactive professional who is fluent in both English and Chinese and has experience in tour management, performing arts administration, or related fields. The Tour Manager will work as a contracted freelancer for this project, joining the team as soon as possible to familiarize themselves with the ensemble and tour logistics.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bilingual Proficiency: Fluent in English and Chinese (spoken and written).
• Tour & Logistics Management: Proven experience managing tour travel logistics, including visas, itineraries, flights, accommodations, and local transportation (U.S. and China).
• Event & Production Management: Ability to liaise with venues, coordinate schedules, negotiate rehearsal needs, and communicate technical requirements.
• Budget & Expense Tracking: Reliable monitoring and reporting of travel, per diem, and all tour-related expenses.
• Interpersonal & Cultural Sensitivity: Strong ability to navigate cultural differences.
• Scheduling & Time Management: Ability to create, negotiate, and manage detailed schedules for rehearsals, performances, and travel.
• Problem-Solving Under Pressure: Calm and quick decision-making skills to handle last-minute changes.
• Contract & Visa Knowledge: Basic understanding of artist visas and international touring regulations.
• Health & Safety Oversight: Prioritize the health and safety of ensemble musicians throughout the tour.
• Crisis Management: Ability to handle inquiries and communications in emergencies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Instrument & Ensemble Coordination: Familiarity with music instrument rentals and handling.
• Boundary Setting & Leadership: Assertive boundary-setting skills.
• Receptiveness to Guidance: Willingness to ask for and take advice from supervisors.
• Knowledge of Music: Familiarity with traditional Chinese and Western classical instruments.

COMPENSATION: approximately 10K, commensurate with experience.

The expected timeframe for this role is March to July 2025, with the opportunity to return in late Fall 2025 for the tour to Washington DC. Remote work is possible, but the Tour Manager will be required to travel with the ensemble for the entire duration of the performances.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to Bard US-China Music Institute Managing Director Kathryn Wright at [email protected].

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