Intended for students interested in serving as an Assistant Music Director for specific UMD Theatre productions. Minimum time commitment: 90 hours.

The Assistant Musical Director works with the Muisc Director, assisting the teaching and directing of all vocal parts, possibly serving as a vocal coach, accompanist or conducting performances.

Planning Period:

-Read the script and become familiar with the show.
-If an original cast album is available, listen to the album while following along with the score.
-Identify the necessary instrumentation.
-Identify the vocal ranges of all characters, including chorus/ensemble.

Pre-Production Period:

-Assist in accompaning auditions.
-Help select and print appropriate vocal sides for characters at callbacks.

Rehearsal Period:

-Be present and ready to accompany rehearsals as needed.
-Help teach actors their vocal part.
-Work with actors as requested.
-Help find alternatives to harmonies (if needed).
-Help prepare pit partsand dstribute to pit musicians.
-Maintain frequent contact with the Sound Designer.

Tech/Dress Rehearsals/Performances:

-Rehearse with pit musicians prior to sitz as reqested.
-Assist sitzprobe.
-Work with Sound Designer to ensure balance between sound levels of orchestra and vocals.
-Help ensure the return of all materials from musicians and actors.

Grading: