Public Relations: Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
BSO Public Relations Internship—Spring 2008
Posted: November 8, 2007
Proposed term: early January through May 2008 (or beyond, some flexibility)
Weekly hours: An average of 20 hours per week
Compensation: $50/week, parking pass (if applicable) ; access to BSO concerts and events; academic credit if applicable
Location: Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore
Open to: Students who have completed at least 2 years of college; graduate students
About the BSO: The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is internationally recognized as having achieved a preeminent place among the world's most important orchestras. The 2007-2008 season marks the orchestra’s first season with Music Director Marin Alsop, who made international headlines in 2005 when she became the first female to lead a major American symphony orchestra. The BSO performs year-round at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall (Baltimore, Md.) and at the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Md. Concerts and series include a full range of classical series, pops programming, family and youth concerts, special events and presentations.
About the PR department: The BSO public relations department is responsible for the organization’s public image and for strategic media relations surrounding all Orchestra programming, special events, presentations, major announcements and more.
The PR intern's responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Preparation and distribution of press clippings
• Writing and editing monthly calendars and press releases
• Organizing distribution of press materials
• Participation in publicity planning and strategy sessions
• Developing feature story ideas
• Projects as assigned, based on department needs and intern’s interests
Intern will also assist with clerical and general public relations tasks. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in learning about media relations or the workings of a major symphony orchestra. The PR intern is supervised by the Publicist, and also works with the PR and Publications Coordinator and the VP of Public Relations.
Ideal candidates will have: strong writing, organizational and interpersonal skills; basic facility with computers and technology; impeccable attention to detail; positive energy and a willingness to “pitch in” wherever needed. The position requires flexibility and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. An interest in symphonic music or the performing arts is helpful, but not required. Candidates should also have an interest in gaining valuable and direct experience in the PR office of a major performing arts organization.
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Interested candidates should submit cover letter, résumé and writing sample(s) (2-5 pages in length) to BSO Publicist Michelle Pendoley, mpendoley@BSOmusic.org. No phone calls please. The department’s goal is to interview qualified candidates and select an intern by December 7, 2007.
