Kapellmeister (Conductor)
The Royal Danish Theatre posted 4 days ago Shortlist Email JobJob Description
With Chief Conductor Marie Jacquot, The Royal Danish Theatre and Orchestra is seeking a Kapellmeister for a newly created, fixed-term position
during the 2027/28 and 2028/29 seasons. This is a full-time position reporting to the Orchestra Director.
The Royal Danish Theatre and Orchestra
The Royal Danish Theatre is Denmark’s National Stage, presenting drama, ballet, opera, and orchestral music, including music-dramatic
works. Its repertoire spans both classical masterpieces and contemporary creations, with a special responsibility to present works rooted
in Danish cultural heritage.
The Royal Danish Orchestra is the world’s oldest orchestra and a leading international opera and ballet orchestra. It collaborates closely
with the Royal Danish Ballet, renowned for the world-famous Bournonville tradition, and with the Royal Danish Opera. Each season,
the Orchestra presents a diverse program of operas, ballets, and concerts with acclaimed guest conductors alongside Chief Conductor Marie
Jacquot.
The Orchestra is based in Copenhagen’s state-of-the-art Opera House on Holmen. In 2022, Copenhagen was ranked “The World’s Most Liveable
City” (Monocle).
The Job
As Kapellmeister, you will join the department of The Royal Danish Orchestra (music department) and, in close collaboration with the Chief
Conductor, lead rehearsals and performances. This could include operas, concerts, operettas, ballets, and musicals. You would also work
with singers in preparation for productions, primarily (but not necessarily exclusively) those you conduct yourself.
Your responsibilities will include:
• Serving as first and/or second conductor for opera, operettas, musical and ballet productions.
• Acting as an artistic sparring partner for the Chief Conductor and Studienleiter.
• Working with artistic- and production teams on artistic and practical decisions.
• Collaborating with the artistic departments, such as Ballet- and Opera department, orchestra administration, music library, music staff and chorus masters.
• The position requires a high degree of presence in Copenhagen.
Qualifications
We expect that you thrive in a dynamic, sometimes fast-paced working environment and can quickly adapt to the shifting rhythms of theatre
life.
You should also demonstrate:
• Proven experience as a conductor.
• A broad repertoire knowledge and stylistic versatility.
• The ability to lead rehearsals with independence and engagement, while collaborating closely with both the Chief Conductor and the Orchestra Director.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken. Knowledge of other European languages is an advantage.
Terms of Employment
This is a full-time position. Salary and employment conditions follow relevant collective agreements within the Danish state sector or may
be arranged individually.
Application
For further information about the position, please contact:
Martin Brommann, Orchestra manager – MBRR@kglteater.dk
Apply by clicking here.
Please attach a single PDF including your cover letter, CV, references, and (if available) links to audio and video samples.
Application deadline: February 28, 2026
Audition Process
• First Round: June 4, 2026 – a 25-minute rehearsal with the Orchestra and soloists, working independently on a designated piece from the Royal Danish Theatre repertoire. The repertoire will be announced at least three weeks in advance.
• Second Round: In the second round, you will be asked to conduct an opera that will be performed in the autumn of 2026. The actual opera and the dates will be communicated to the candidates invited to the second round.
We encourage all qualified candidates, regardless of personal background, to apply.
Learn more about The Royal Danish Theatre at kglteater.dk
