About Company
The Yukon Arts Centre (YAC) is the premier multidisciplinary arts facility in Canada’s Yukon Territory, located in Whitehorse. As a vibrant hub for creativity and cultural exchange, YAC is dedicated to fostering artistic development, presenting diverse performances and exhibitions, and enriching the cultural landscape of the North. We proudly showcase local, national, and international talent across various disciplines, including music, theatre, dance, visual arts, and film. Our mission is to inspire, engage, and connect communities through the power of art, providing a platform for artists to thrive and for audiences to experience world-class cultural offerings. We are committed to supporting emerging artists and contributing to the growth of the arts industry in the Yukon and beyond.
Job Description
Are you a passionate and driven individual with a keen ear for emerging talent and a deep understanding of the music and arts landscape? The Yukon Arts Centre is seeking an enthusiastic A&R Intern to join our dynamic team. This unpaid internship offers an invaluable opportunity for a student currently enrolled in a relevant college or university program to gain hands-on experience in artist discovery, development, and project management within a leading arts organization. While traditionally associated with record labels, our A&R (Artists & Repertoire) internship at YAC focuses on identifying, nurturing, and presenting diverse artistic talent relevant to our programming. You will play a vital role in supporting our programming team by researching artists, reviewing submissions, assisting with artist liaison, and contributing to the strategic development of our performance and exhibition schedules. This is a unique chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of the Yukon, learn about the intricacies of arts administration, and contribute to bringing captivating cultural experiences to our community. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, possess excellent communication skills, have a strong knowledge of various music genres and artistic expressions, and demonstrate a proactive attitude towards learning and contributing. This internship is structured to provide significant educational value and direct exposure to the processes involved in artist selection, contracting, and support, crucial for anyone considering a career in the music industry, arts management, or talent scouting. We are looking for someone eager to make a tangible impact and grow their professional network.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the programming team in researching and identifying emerging and established artists across various disciplines (music, visual arts, performance) suitable for YAC programming.
- Review artist submissions and proposals, providing insightful feedback and summaries to the programming committee.
- Maintain and organize artist databases, contact information, and project files.
- Support artist liaison activities, including initial outreach, scheduling meetings, and assisting with logistical coordination.
- Contribute to the development of artist profiles, press kits, and promotional materials.
- Attend industry showcases, local performances, and cultural events to scout talent and stay abreast of artistic trends in the Yukon and beyond.
- Participate in brainstorming sessions for new programming ideas and artist development initiatives.
- Assist with administrative tasks related to programming and artist management as needed.
- Prepare reports and presentations on potential artists and market trends.
Required Skills
- Currently enrolled in a college or university program related to Music Business, Arts Administration, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
- Strong passion for and knowledge of various music genres and artistic forms.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and G Suite.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proactive, enthusiastic, and eager to learn.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with database management or CRM software.
- Familiarity with the Yukon and Canadian arts and culture scene.
- Previous experience in a volunteer or internship role within the arts, music, or entertainment industry.
- Basic knowledge of music licensing, publishing, or artist contracts.
Perks & Benefits
- Gain invaluable hands-on experience in arts programming and artist development within a leading arts institution.
- Opportunity to earn college or university credit.
- Network with industry professionals, artists, and cultural leaders.
- Exposure to a diverse range of artistic disciplines and cultural events.
- Mentorship from experienced professionals in the arts sector.
- Contribution to the vibrant cultural life of the Yukon.
- Professional development opportunities and skill enhancement.
How to Apply
To apply for the A&R Intern position, please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications for this role, and proof of current college/university enrollment (indicating eligibility for college credit) through the Yukon Arts Centre’s career portal. In your cover letter, please highlight your passion for the arts and any relevant experience or projects. We encourage you to apply promptly.