Auditions & Employment

About Us

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) exists to INSPIRE-EDUCATE-UNITE and build community through the power of music. As the largest professional orchestra in the state and the only arts organization that bridges Tampa Bay, TFO presents more than 100 concerts, education programs and community experiences each season. Our 70 full-time professional musicians and conductors, led by internationally acclaimed Music Director Michael Francis, bring music to concert halls, schools, community centers, parks and neighborhoods across the region. TFO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and has an annual operating budget of approximately $16 million and an endowment of approximately $35 million. The Florida Orchestra will celebrate its 60th season in 2027-28.

Position Summary

This is a full-time, exempt position based in The Florida Orchestra’s St. Petersburg office. The Development Director reports to the Vice President of Development and serves as a senior frontline fundraiser responsible for securing significant philanthropic support for The Florida Orchestra. The Director manages a portfolio of approximately 50–70 donors and prospects, leading strategies for cultivation, solicitation, closing, and stewardship across annual, major and planned gifts, sponsorships, and grants.

Working closely with the Vice President of Development and Development colleagues, the Director helps advance TFO’s multi-year contributed revenue strategy across individual, corporate, foundation and government giving. Success is measured by strong donor relationships, disciplined portfolio management, successful solicitations and consistent progress toward individual and team revenue goals.

An appreciation for music and comfort attending concert and educational performances is required. The position includes extended hours, evenings and weekends, including concert duty throughout the season (September through May) at the Straz Center (Tampa), Mahaffey Theater (St. Petersburg), Ruth Eckerd Hall (Clearwater), other venues, public parks, and donor and community events.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of approximately 50-70 current and prospective donors through disciplined moves management, from qualification and cultivation through solicitation, closing and stewardship.
• Build trusted relationships with high-net-worth individuals and secure gifts from five figures through the high six figures.
• Assess donor interests, priorities and philanthropic capacity and develop strategies for annual, major and planned gifts, sponsorships and grants.
• Serve as deputy to the Vice President of Development, supporting the implementation of TFO’s multi-year fundraising strategy and participating in department strategic planning.
• Develop and maintain a strong pipeline of prospective donors and funding partners, working with the Development Operations & Database Manager on prospect research, analytics and reporting.
• Track portfolio activity, revenue, pipeline, donor retention and forecast-to-actual performance; maintain timely contact reports, next steps and donor intelligence in Tessitura (CRM) and provide regular portfolio updates and recommendations to the Vice President of Development.
• Partner with the Vice President of Development, Gala Committee, Donor Engagement & Special Events Manager and colleagues across TFO to achieve gala, special-event and donor engagement goals.
• Represent TFO in donor meetings, at concerts and at community and cultivation events, including
  select evenings and weekends.
• Collaborate with colleagues across TFO to develop donor opportunities and report on donor-funded
  activities.
• Ensure fundraising activity is conducted in accordance with donor intent, applicable regulations, AFP ethical standards and TFO policies; maintain strict donor and organizational confidentiality.
• Assist with special projects and other Development responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• At least seven years of progressive fundraising experience, with experience in nonprofit arts and culture, education or social services preferred.
• Proven success cultivating, soliciting and closing gifts from five figures through the high six figures.
• Demonstrated experience managing a major-gift portfolio and implementing donor journeys and
  moves management strategies.
• Strong judgment, personal accountability, initiative and a results-driven approach to fundraising.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation and relationship-building skills, with effective organization, follow-through and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities and stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with Tessitura (CRM) and iWave (donor intelligence) is preferred, but other CRM and fundraising system experience considered.
• Knowledge of the Tampa Bay philanthropic and business community is preferred; corporate fundraising and sponsorship experience is a plus.
• Reliable transportation is required for donor appointments, concert duty and other local job-related responsibilities.
• Passion for TFO’s mission and commitment to professional fundraising ethics, donor-centered practices and established organizational protocols.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

• The annual salary range is $75,000-$80,000.
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
• Retirement plan with employer match.

This full-time, in-person, exempt position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental and vision coverage, as well as a retirement plan.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Jobs@floridaorchestra.org. Please include "Development Director" in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until October 15, 2026. All inquiries and discussions will be considered strictly confidential.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change by The Florida Orchestra based on the changing needs and requirements of the job, department, or organization. Duties, responsibilities, and skills are also subject to change.

The Florida Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Position Summary

The Senior Accountant is responsible for overseeing day-to-day accounting operations, supporting month-end close, financial reporting, and audit preparation. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate across departments. Reporting to the VP of Finance & Administration, the Senior Accountant ensures timely and accurate financial reporting in compliance with GAAP. The role offers the chance to support the mission and growth of a leading cultural institution in Tampa Bay.

About The Florida Orchestra (TFO):

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) exists to INSPIRE-EDUCATE-UNITE and build community through the power of music. As the largest professional orchestra in the state and the only arts organization that bridges Tampa Bay, TFO presents more than 100 concerts, education programs and community experiences each season. Our 70 full-time professional musicians and conductors, led by internationally acclaimed Music Director Michael Francis, bring music to concert halls, schools, community centers, parks and neighborhoods across the region. TFO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and has an annual operating budget of approximately $16 million and an endowment of approximately $35 million. The Florida Orchestra will celebrate its 60th season in 2027-28.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review journal entries, general ledger reconciliations, and monthly financial statements
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting
• Analyze financial data and trends to support forecasting and budgeting efforts
• Support external audits by preparing schedules
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and assist in continuous process improvements
• Maintain fixed asset schedules and depreciation entries
• Assist in cash flow forecasting and bank reconciliations
• Aid with accounts payable
• Oversee accounts receivable and payroll accounting entries
• Research and resolve accounting discrepancies and irregularities
• Work closely with our Payroll and HR contractor on Payroll and HR benefits
• Ensure all Donor system transactions are recorded and reconcile general ledger reports to the Development Department reporting.
• Provide other support to the Finance Department:
  • Maintain accounting controls and follow generally accepted accounting principles. Report anomalies to the VP of Finance and Administration.
  • Assist with risk management, oversight, and annual insurance renewal as needed.
  • Assist with budget preparation as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or progress toward CPA preferred)
• 3–5+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in a mid-sized or large organization
• Solid understanding of GAAP and financial reporting principles
• Experience with ERP/accounting systems (e.g., Abilia MIP)
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Compensation and Benefits

• The salary range for this exempt position is $65,000-$70,000 to commensurate with experience.
• This is an in-office position requiring standard business hours M-F.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Vacation time
• Company holidays
• 403(b) plan with employer match
• *This is a full-time exempt position requiring evening and weekend hours when needed.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Jobs@floridaorchestra.org. Please include “Senior Accountant” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 25, 2026. All inquiries and discussions will be considered strictly confidential.

The Florida Orchestra is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, religion, national origin or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. 

Position Summary

The Florida Orchestra is seeking an exceptional visual storyteller to join our Communications team as Digital Content Manager.

This role is focused primarily on video storytelling and content creation. You’ll uncover compelling stories and bring them to life through high-quality video and photography, from backstage and the concert hall to classrooms and communities across Tampa Bay.

The ideal candidate can develop concepts, conduct interviews, shoot with professional equipment and smartphones, and edit polished video for marketing, advertising, fundraising, PR, web and email. The role also manages TFO’s organic social media presence, including content creation, publishing and day-to-day management of our social platforms.

You’ll have access to extraordinary musicians, performances and community programs  and the opportunity to tell stories in ways that inspire audiences across Tampa Bay and beyond.

About The Florida Orchestra (TFO):

The Florida Orchestra exists to INSPIRE | EDUCATE | UNITE through the power of music. Now entering its 59th season, TFO is the largest professional orchestra in Florida and the only arts organization serving the entire Tampa Bay region. Led by internationally acclaimed Music Director Michael Francis, the orchestra employs 70 professional musicians and presents more than 100 concerts and education programs each season across Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, reaching audiences throughout the community. With an annual budget of approximately $16 million, The Florida Orchestra is a leading cultural force dedicated to artistic excellence and community impact.

Reports to: Chief Communications Officer

Essential Responsibilities

Create exceptional visual content

• Capture professional-quality photography and video at concerts, rehearsals, education programs, donor events and community activities.
• Produce engaging short-form videos for Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts and Facebook.
• Create longer-form videos for YouTube, the website, presentations and special campaigns.
• Photograph guest artists, musicians, audiences, backstage moments and community programs.
• Edit video and photography to produce polished, platform-specific content.
• Build and maintain a growing library of photo and video assets.

Tell meaningful stories

• Identify compelling stories that showcase the artistry, people and impact of The Florida Orchestra.
• Interview musicians, guest artists, students, donors and community partners.
• Develop behind-the-scenes features that make audiences feel connected to the orchestra.
• Capture authentic moments that demonstrate the emotional impact of live music.
• Help translate classical music into engaging, accessible digital storytelling.

Manage digital and social content

• Plan and execute content across Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube and emerging platforms.
• Develop creative content ideas that support ticket sales, fundraising, audience development and community engagement.
• Write engaging captions and digital copy that reflect The Florida Orchestra's voice.
• Monitor trends and recommend fresh approaches to reach new audiences.
• Manage content scheduling, publishing and community engagement across all platforms.

Manage external creative partners

• Identify, vet and onboard freelance photographers, videographers and creative agencies to expand content coverage for concerts, events and special projects.
• Scope assignments, coordinate schedules and review deliverables to ensure freelance and vendor work meets TFO's creative and brand standards.
• Manage the content production budget, including freelance/vendor invoicing, equipment needs and production costs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for external production partners and creative agencies on multimedia projects.
• Identify opportunities to collaborate with local content creators, influencers and community partners to expand The Florida Orchestra's reach and engage new audiences.

Support organizational communications

• Collaborate with Marketing, Development, Education & Community Impact and Artistic Operations to tell stories across the organization.
• Produce visual assets for email campaigns, media relations, advertising, annual reports and special initiatives.
• Help document major organizational milestones and community partnerships.
• Assist in maintaining brand consistency across digital platforms.

Measures of success

• Collaborate with Marketing, Development, Education & Community Impact and Artistic Operations to tell stories across the organization.
• Produce visual assets for email campaigns, media relations, advertising, annual reports and special initiatives.
• Help document major organizational milestones and community partnerships.
• Assist in maintaining brand consistency across digital platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, digital media, film, photography, marketing or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Three or more years of professional experience creating digital content.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience managing organizational social media accounts, including content calendars, publishing, community engagement/response and platform-specific best practices (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook).
• Working knowledge of social media analytics and scheduling/management tools (e.g., Sprout Social, Later, Meta Business Suite).
• Knowledge of current social media trends, audience behavior and digital storytelling best practices.
• Outstanding photography and videography skills with a strong portfolio demonstrating visual storytelling.
• Proficiency with professional camera equipment, lighting and audio.
• Strong video editing skills using Adobe Premiere Pro (preferred), Final Cut Pro, CapCut or similar software.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud, including Photoshop and Lightroom.
• Excellent writing, interviewing and storytelling skills.
• Ability to tell compelling visual stories while working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience collaborating with freelance creatives, production vendors or creative agencies.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends during concerts, events and special projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience creating content for performing arts, entertainment, nonprofit or live event organizations.
• Experience producing both vertical and horizontal video.
• Experience working in fast-paced live event environments.
• Drone photography/videography certification is a plus.

Compensation

Salary Range: $60,000–$72,000, commensurate with experience. 

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, paid time off, and a strong team culture rooted in mutual respect and creativity.

Location: This is a full-time position based in Tampa Bay that requires a combination of time in the office as well as travel to concert halls and events. Concert and evening work is part of the rhythm of the job.

To Apply

Please submit:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Portfolio showcasing photography and videography work
• Three to five examples of short-form video content (Reels, TikToks or YouTube Shorts)
• Links to social media accounts or campaigns you've created (if applicable)

Interested candidates should submit all materials to Jobs@floridaorchestra.org. Please include Digital Content Specialist in the subject line. All inquiries and discussions will be considered strictly confidential.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change by The Florida Orchestra based on the changing needs and requirements of the job, department, or organization. Duties, responsibilities and skills are subject to change.

The Florida Orchestra is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, religion, national origin or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. 

Position Summary

The String Specialist is a key member of The Florida Orchestra’s Education & Community Impact team, serving as a lead instructor within the Strings Project. This role delivers engaging, culturally responsive group instruction, supports curriculum development, and contributes to program execution across assigned host sites, primarily serving historically underserved communities in Pinellas and Hillsborough County.

The Specialist works closely with program leadership to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction and youth engagement, while also mentoring junior instructors and supporting TFO’s training pipeline. This role includes participation in performances, events, and seasonal programming, including summer instruction and training.

Reporting Structure

Reports to the Director, Education & Community Impact and works closely with the Senior String Specialist.

Compensation and Schedule Overview

Hourly Rate: $50 – $65 per hour, commensurate with experience.

This is an hourly non-exempt position with variable hours based on program needs, including school-year instruction, summer programming (June–July), and occasional events. Some evening hours may be required; weekend commitments are minimal.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Deliver group string instruction at assigned sites
• Plan and implement lesson plans aligned with program goals
• Provide individualized support to students as needed
• Support performances, events, and program activities
• Maintain clear communication with program leadership and families
• Mentor junior instructors as assigned
• Maintain required documentation and attendance records
• Uphold program standards and organizational values
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of program success and organizational priorities
• Participate in required training

What We Are Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Violin or viola proficiency with strong performance, classroom management, and pedagogical skills
  • Cellists or bassists considered with experience teaching violin and/or viola; program expansion scope includes eventual addition of lower strings
• Bachelor's degree in music education or instrumental performance.
• Demonstrated group teaching experience, including leading classes of varying sizes and skill levels (10+ students preferred)
• Ability to identify and address individual student needs within a group setting
• Experience planning and delivering structured lesson plans aligned with program or curriculum goals
• Strong classroom management skills and ability to create a structured, engaging learning environment
• Reliable transportation and ability to travel to assigned host sites
• Ability to pass required Level 2 background checks
• Reliable access to technology for training sessions and professional development

Preferred Qualifications

• Curriculum development and mapping experience, including designing and sequencing program curricula aligned with organizational, state, or national benchmarks
• Suzuki training or experience with established string pedagogy methodologies (e.g., Orff, Kodaly)
• Willingness to pursue additional pedagogy or program-specific training if not already completed
• Trauma-informed training or experience working with students from underserved or trauma-impacted communities, with the ability to apply trauma-responsive approaches in the classroom

What You Bring

• Mission-driven and aligned with TFO's commitment to community impact through music education
• Strong communicator who is clear, proactive, and professional with students, families, and colleagues
• Confident classroom leader who creates a structured, engaging, and supportive learning environment
• Empathetic and student-centered, with the ability to meet scholars where they are
• Organized and detail-oriented, with strong follow-through on planning, communication, and documentation
• Adaptable and flexible in dynamic, community-based environments
• Reliable and consistent, with a high level of accountability
• Positive and professional, with the ability to maintain clear expectations and boundaries

Additional Details

• Mileage reimbursement available up to a specified monthly maximum
• All required background screenings and professional development are provided by TFO
• Professional development opportunities include training in areas such as trauma response, emotional intelligence, CPR/First Aid, and string pedagogy
• Position to begin September 1, 2027.

School Year 26-27:    

• Classes take place before or after regular school day hours.
• Required training and class programming begin in early September.
  • Planning, training, and continued professional development occur throughout the year during regular scheduled frequencies.
  • Training time is compensated at the Specialist hourly rate, professional development costs is at no cost to the Strings Specialist.

Summer Camp Session Sample:

June 1-4: Required Teacher training: 9:00am-1:00pm

June 5-25: Summer Sessions: M-TH

July 13-30: Summer Sessions: M-TH

Physical Requirements

This role requires the ability to stand for extended periods of time, move between classrooms or program locations, and actively engage in instruction. The position may involve lifting and carrying musical instruments and equipment (up to approximately 25–30 pounds), as well as bending, reaching, and other physical movement associated with classroom and performance settings.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted until August 14^th, 2026, or until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; interview invitations will be extended immediately after reviewing materials for qualified candidates.

Interested applicants should submit:

• a resume/cv
• cover letter addressing relevant experience and teaching philosophy or approach

Optional, strongly encouraged:

Applicants may choose to include a video demonstrating applicants' teaching.

• May be group teaching or individual, one-to-one teaching
• 10-15 minutes of unedited, continuous teaching
• Please send the recording as an unlisted YouTube link

Application materials must be sent to ECEsearch@floridaorchestra.org for consideration.

The Florida Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Reports to: Director, Education & Community Impact

Position Summary:

The Florida Orchestra seeks an experienced early learning instructor with singing and/or instrumental performance experience to provide services as the Early Learning Program Leader in Training for its Rattle and Roll program. This independent contractor engagement supports an immersive early learning concert experience for toddlers, preschoolers, and their caregivers.

The Early Learning Program Leader in Training leads each concert, guiding participants through music and movement activities alongside live TFO Musicians, and collaborates with the Education & Community Impact team to develop curriculum grounded in early childhood development research.

• Concert Leadership: The Early Learning Program Leader in Training facilitates each 30–45-minute Rattle and Roll concert, leading toddlers and caregivers through songs, movement, and instrument play alongside a small TFO ensemble. Concerts are held at Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County and community partner sites across the Tampa Bay region.
• Curriculum Development: The Early Learning Program Leader in Training collaborates with the TFO administrative team to design cross-disciplinary curricula and lesson plans inspired by established early childhood music education methods, including Musikgarten, Kindermusik, and Suzuki Early Childhood Music.

Services are rendered as an independent contractor; this agreement does not create an employer-employee relationship with The Florida Orchestra.

About the Florida Orchestra

Now in its 59th season, The Florida Orchestra is the largest professional orchestra in Florida and the only major arts organization serving the entire Tampa Bay region. Under the leadership of Music Director Michael Francis, TFO presents more than 100 performances annually and is committed to inspiring, educating, and uniting the community through music. The orchestra’s Education & Community Impact programs reach thousands of students and residents throughout the region each year.

About Rattle and Roll

Rattle and Roll is an immersive, community-centered concert series designed to deepen bonds between children and their caregivers through music, movement, and play. This 30–45-minute program combines live music performed by a small TFO ensemble with guided movement activities using toddler-appropriate instruments—egg shakers, rhythm sticks, jingle bells, and scarves. Rooted in early development research, the program aims to foster social-emotional growth, language development, and pattern recognition skills in children ages 1-5 (Toddlers through Pre-K)

Program Details

Audience: Toddlers and preschoolers (if we add ages 3-5) ages 1–5 with caregivers

Program Length: 30–45 minutes per concert

Time Commitment: 1 hour per concert (5-7 total concerts)

Concert Dates: TBD

Locations: Various TFO and community partner locations throughout the Tampa Bay region.

Scope of Services includes, but are not limited to:

• Lead and facilitate Rattle and Roll pilot concerts, guiding toddlers and caregivers through an engaging music and movement experience alongside TFO Musicians.
• Develop cross-disciplinary curricula and lesson plans in collaboration with the TFO administrative team, grounded in early childhood development goals.
• Participate in a run-through/rehearsal concert with TFO Musicians prior to public performances.
• Attend periodic planning meetings with TFO staff and provide consistent feedback on program curriculum and implementation.
• Support the development of program-related assessments and benchmarks, as mutually agreed upon within the scope of the engagement.
• Coordinate program logistics with TFO staff and comply with applicable partner, host-site, safety, and program requirements.
• Complete any training required by TFO or partner sites as a condition of providing services at applicable program locations.
• Demonstrate adaptability and confidence working in diverse early learning environments.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Experience as a vocal instructor, performing artist, or early childhood music educator.
• Familiarity with early childhood music education frameworks (Musikgarten, Kindermusik, Suzuki, or similar) preferred.
• Multi-instrumentalists encouraged to apply.
• Ability to engage toddlers ages 1–3, preschoolers 3-5 and their caregivers in an energetic, warm, and structured concert environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with professional musicians, TFO administrative staff, and community partners.
• Ability to comply with partner site requirements, including any applicable background check or training requirements.

Compensation and Schedule

Concerts performed are to be paid in the first payroll period following the concert event.

• Curriculum and concert shadowing: $225/concert
  • Curriculum development: $50
  • Rehearsal: $50
  • Concert: $125

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit:

• A resume/cv
• A 5–10-minute, continuous, unedited video demonstrating the applicant’s teaching or instructional style. The video may demonstrate group or individual, one-on-one instruction and should be submitted via an unlisted YouTube link or Google Drive file.

Application materials must be sent to: ECEsearch@floridaorchestra.org

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Application review will begin November 30.

All inquiries are considered strictly confidential. No calls, please.

Employment Disclaimer and Equal Opportunity Statement

This engagement description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change based on the evolving needs of The Florida Orchestra, the department, or the program. Duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be modified at any time.

The Florida Orchestra is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and an equal opportunity employer. The Florida Orchestra does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.