Volunteer Opportunity: Calgary Philharmonic Society Board of Directors

DATE :

DEADLINE: February 20, 2026 - 5:00 pm

About the Calgary Phil
For seven decades, the Calgary Philharmonic has been bringing communities together through the power of music. A pillar of the Calgary arts scene and one of Canada’s most celebrated live music ensembles, the Calgary Phil presents more than 60 concerts a season across a wide range of programming — epic classics, thrilling collaborations, rockin’ pops, family fun, and much more. The Calgary Phil also engages thousands of children each season through innovative and accessible Education and Outreach initiatives. In addition to 66 full-time orchestra musicians, the Calgary Phil is one of two major symphony orchestras in Canada that has its own chorus of over 140 volunteer singers. In a typical season, the Calgary Phil welcomes over 100,000 visitors, connecting audiences to live music experiences and serving the city of Calgary by fostering creativity and belonging. Your Phil. Your Music.

The Role
Calgary Phil Board members serve in a volunteer capacity and provide oversight, guidance, and support to the Calgary Philharmonic Society. Their responsibilities include participating in strategic direction, fundraising, financial oversight, and governance. They play a key role in advancing the organization’s vision that the "Calgary Phil belongs to everyone.” Board members also represent the orchestra in the community and help cultivate relationships with supporters, contributing to the Orchestra’s long-term success and sustainability.

We are looking for directors that possess one or more of the following backgrounds/core skills: finance, legal, governance, marketing, communications, fundraising, music appreciation/performance, strong profile in the Calgary business community, strategic planning, HR/organizational development, non-profit, government/lobbying and diverse perspectives.

Board Responsibilities and Commitments
Regular Meetings
• The Board meets up to once a month for approximately two to three hours
• Board members are expected to attend all Board meetings (with an allowance to miss no more than two per year)
• Board members are also expected to serve on one of the Board Committees, which typically meet once a month ahead of Board meetings

Governance and Oversight
Board members play a crucial role in governing the organization, which includes:
• Governing and regulating the operations, management, and control of the Society
• Creating, interpreting, and administering policies
• Ensuring the financial viability of the Society
• Employing appropriate risk mitigation strategies

Organizational and Community Engagement
• Board members should get to know members of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, management, staff, volunteers, and the Foundation Board of Trustees.
• Board members are expected to attend a minimum of six concerts per season, spanning various series and special events. This engagement will help enable Board members to have good knowledge of the organization and exposure to a variety of artistic programming, audiences, donors, marketing initiatives, and fundraising activities.

Representative and Ambassador
Board members are expected to actively promote the Calgary Phil and serve as its ambassadors to the community, including by:
• Financially supporting the organization
• Attending fundraising events
• Leveraging personal and corporate connections in support of fundraising/revenue generation opportunities
• Introducing new patrons and audience members to the Calgary Phil
• Participating in and promoting the Calgary Phil's social media activities

Term Length
Board terms are for two years, with the possibility of serving multiple terms (up to four terms) for those who wish to continue their commitment.

Application Process
We accept applications on a rolling basis. While we do not have a specific board position opening at this time, we encourage individuals interested in contributing to our mission to submit their application for future consideration. Please note that to be considered in the current review cycle, applications must be submitted by Friday, February 20, 2026.

A Police Information Check will be required from the successful candidates.

Please send cover letter and resume to:
Nominating Committee c/o Marian Dyck HR@calgaryphil.com with the subject line "Board Member Application"

The Calgary Phil is committed to fostering an anti-racist, equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment and, as such, encourages qualified candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds. If you require accommodation, please let us know so that we can work with you to accommodate your needs.

We thank you for your interest in the Calgary Phil. Follow the Calgary Philharmonic @calgaryphil on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and register for email updates at calgaryphil.com/newsletter.