Artistic director (music)

In the music industry, an artistic director refers to someone who directs a musical ensemble and is the primary leader in the implementation of all artistic plans. In most countries the title is generally understood to be equivalent or interchangeable with that of "Music Director," and carries the corresponding responsibilities of directing (conducting or rehearsing) the ensemble, programming repertoire and performers, and (often) cultivating an artistic vision and often a long-term artistic strategy for the organization. The title and corresponding position is understood to be the highest level of artistic or musical decision-making inside the hierarchy of the organization, often working with an administrative counterpart such as an Executive Director, managing director, or CEO.

Some organizations, including some large orchestras, opt to have a primary conductor who reports to an artistic director in charge of long-range planning and artistic decision-making outside of that directly related to the rehearsal and performance process.