Description
Position Description
The English Diction Specialist at Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL) serves as a vital member of the artistic team. They work directly alongside professional Stage Directors, Conductors, and Repetiteurs by assisting with all musical/dialogue diction aspects of the production throughout the rehearsal and performance process. This position will be responsible for the primary English Diction Specialists duties on two productions within the Festival Season.
The position is a seasonal, full-time position. Frequent night and weekend hours will be required.
Duties & Responsibilities
English Diction Specialist responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Providing musical and diction coaching for artists engaged in principal and supporting roles by OTSL in association with other members of the music staff, and under the direction of the conducting staff, Principal Conductor, and Artistic Director.
- Coordinating with Music Staff and the Directing/Stage Management Staff on both matters of English diction and assessment of Gerdine Young Artists and their needs (individually and collectively), e.g., cover coachings/stagings/run-throughs.
- Assisting with musical and diction matters during technical rehearsals, dressrehearsals, and performances.
Providing diction coaching for young artists covering roles within the productions for which they have primary and secondary repetiteur duties. - Providing coaching for members of Opera Theatre’s Richard Gaddes Festival Artist and Gerdine Young Artist Programs as requested by the Artistic Director.
- Assisting with the preparation of the artists appearing at other musical events as may be arranged by OTSL.
Compensation
- Compensation Range: $1,250.00-$1,500.00 / week
- This is a seasonal, full-time position.
- Travel and housing: provided
- Engagement dates:
- Position 1: Sunday, April 26, 2026 – Sunday, June 7, 2026
- Position 2: Friday, May 1, 2026 – Saturday, June 13, 2026
Special Note
One of the open positions is a temporary, seasonal position covering a leave of absence for the 2026 Festival Season.
To Apply:
Applicants are asked to submit a resume and cover letter in PDF format describing their interest in the position and outlining their relevant experience and qualifications.
APPLY HERE
Application deadline: Friday, November 21, 2025
Requirements
Skills, Experience, & Qualifications
- 5-10 years classical music experience preferred
- 1-5 years vocal coaching in the operatic repertoire
- Dialect experience in British, Southern (New Orleans) and Italian accents, preferred
- Strong keyboard skills preferred
- Deep knowledge of opera repertoire
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to perform under pressure and maintain professional demeanor
- Ability to communicate effectively and clearly
- Ability to take and give feedback in a constructive manner
- Exceptional patience and stamina, preferred
