Our News
TCA Listening Sessions
We want to hear from you! Register now to help TCA assess the needs of our field!
October 21, 2026 at 1 PM Central Registration
December 10, 2026 at 1 PM Central Registration
____________________________
New Grants Approved
On September 3, TCA Commissioners approved funding of 1,143 grants in the first funding round for fiscal year 2027. The grants total over $17 million and will go to nonprofits and units of government in 131 Texas cities. The full list of fiscal year 2027 grants is here.
____________________________
New Cultural Districts Approved
On September 3, TCA Commissioners also approved the designation of four new cultural districts: the Edinburg Arts District, Galveston African American Cultural Heritage District, Lufkin Cultural District, and Mitte Cultural District in Brownsville. Congratulations!
____________________________
September Commission Meeting
Per State law (Government Code, Chapter 551), the agenda is posted for public review with the Texas Register.
Search for “Texas Commission on the Arts” to view the current agendas posted online. The meeting materials are located here.
Art Jobs
ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR, FROM THE TOP
WHO WE ARE:
Serving the country’s fourth-largest media market, KERA reaches more than 5 million people monthly through KERA TV, KERA News, KXT, WRR and The Denton Record-Chronicle as well through national shows Think and From the Top. For more than 65 years, North Texans have turned to KERA as a destination for community engagement and lifelong learning.
As we seek to recognize and reflect our audience and communities, we encourage applicants from all backgrounds and points of view to consider employment opportunities at KERA.
ABOUT FROM THE TOP:
From the Top celebrates and empowers dedicated young musicians ages 8-18. Our Fellows complete a series of educational sessions that culminate in a community engagement experience and an appearance on our NPR broadcast. Please visit www.fromthetop.org to learn more about our work before applying.
POSITION SUMMARY:
From the Top’s Admissions Team is responsible for managing the application and selection processes for young musicians seeking to participate in our Learning and Media Lab Fellowship. This includes:
Recruitment from music programs and teachers across the country
Directing and administering our awards program
Reviewing all applications and selecting participants for the FTT Fellowship
Providing support and guidance to applicants, teachers, parents, Fellows, and award recipients
Booking young musicians who reflect the diverse fabric of our nation’s next generation of artists
Alumni Relations
This position is classified as FLSA exempt, is not eligible for overtime and reports to the Director of Admissions, From the Top.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
Applicant, Fellow, and Award Recipient Coordination: 60%
Manage all communications in the auditions and award email inboxes. Hold the role of primary point of contact for all applicant correspondence
Communicate with applicant base on deadlines and opportunities
Collect sensitive supplemental documentation from all award applicants and ensure that applications are complete
Coordinate application reviews with team of independent reviewers
Coordinate, attend, and adjudicate virtual live auditions
Send decision letters to all reviewed applicants, tracking all letter determinations
Support the Admissions Director in the full review of all award applications. This includes the financial review. No prior financial review experience is necessary; the position will include training
Prepare preliminary award recipient contracts
Complete music-related purchases and track award expenditures (including travel coordination and purchase request completion for all award recipients)
Database and Application Systems: 25%
Maintain department databases on Fillout and Airtable, assuring that applicant details are correct and that applications are routed successfully and in a timely manner
Provide technical support to all internal and external database users as needed
Coordinate with Audience Development, Marketing, and Development departments for accurate and timely sharing of database information
Track, analyze, and report on applicants, Fellow, and award recipient data for grant reporting needs, and design reports to share with colleagues
Use strategic thinking to identify opportunities for system improvements, evaluate new technologies, implement updates and upgrades, and optimize database and application system performance to enhance efficiency and user experience
Departmental & Learning and Media Lab (LML) support responsibilities: 15%
Process expense reports, reconcile Stripe reports, and track department spending
Schedule department & joint department meetings and take meeting-notes
Attend LML meetings to collect attendance and assist in facilitation, as needed
Schedule meetings, coordinate and communicate guest artist and curriculum information internally, and track timelines with LML facilitation team
Project coordinate special projects and initiatives, as needed
As a KERA employee:
Work in a manner that is consistent with KERA’s mission, vision and values; and maintain compliance with all company policies and procedures
Participate in fundraising activities as needed and assigned
Perform additional duties as assigned
This list of job duties is not exhaustive and is subject to regular reviews and updates
WHAT WILL MAKE YOU SUCCESSFUL:
We believe a strong organization includes employees from a range of backgrounds, with different skills, experiences, and passions. If you don't meet every job qualification but have some of these skills and think you’re the right person for the job, we'd like to hear from you. Please apply and tell us more about yourself.
Advanced or professional experience in classical/jazz/and or traditional music performance or education
Experience in and enjoy administrative work supporting departments
Appreciation for working with young people and families
Strong written and verbal communication skills – you equally love connecting on the phone, by video conference, or via email/text
Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines
You enjoy using computer-based databases and project management systems
Pride in accuracy of data
An understanding of and enjoy fostering an inclusive environment where every young musician feels respected, empowered, and supported
You love working collaboratively on small (but mighty!) teams
BONUS IF YOU BRING:
Passion for public media
SALARY RANGE
$48,000 - $52,000 annually, depending on experience
BENEFITS
Generous vacation (3 weeks), sick (8 days), personal time (2 days) and holidays (11)
Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance
KERA-paid short and long-term disability, basic life insurance and AD&D insurance
Flexible scheduling and hybrid work environment
401k plan with KERA-contribution after 6 months
Robust employee assistance program available to the employee and all members of their household
Strong company culture focused on connection, belonging and professional growth
LOCATION:
We expect that this position will work out of our Dallas office at least 20% of the time. (Equivalent to 8 hours per week)
Time in office requirements are subject to change based on the needs of KERA and/or the position.
HOW TO APPLY:
Complete the application on KERA’s employment page.
Add an optional cover letter indicating why you’re excited about joining the KERA team.
APPLICATION TIMELINE:
We generally close roles 2-4 weeks after posting. The hiring process may continue for several weeks after the closing of the role depending on the number of applicants.
KERA is an Equal Opportunity Employer
KERA believes that diversity is important to our success. We are committed to equal employment opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.
Location: Dallas, TX
Website: https://j.brt.mv/jb.do?reqGK=27786723&refresh=true
Deadline: 10/30/26
Job Features1
| Job Category | Jobs |
| Closing Date | 05/19/25 |
| Location | Location |
| Website | Website |
The Organization
Mercury Chamber Orchestra is a dynamic, Houston-based chamber orchestra known for historically informed performances, innovative programming, and deep community engagement. Currently celebrating its 25th season, Mercury has achieved phenomenal growth over the last decade, presenting over 30 performances and reaching more than 30,000 audience members annually through distinctive concert series, community events, school outreach, and concert streaming. Under the artistic leadership of Antoine Plante, Mercury serves the community by celebrating the power of music—Baroque and beyond—by teaching, sharing and performing with passion, intimacy and excellence. Mercury has an annual operating budget of $2.2 million.
The Opportunity
The Development Manager is an essential member of Mercury's development team, responsible for driving annual fund performance, managing a personal portfolio of donors at the entry and mid-levels, and providing hands-on support across all fundraising activity. Reporting to the Development Director, this role owns the day-to-day execution that keeps Mercury's donor pipeline healthy and growing. The Development Manager plays a central role in Gala logistics and is a key operational partner to the Development Director across individual giving, institutional support, and donor stewardship.
What You'll Own
Annual Fund Program
- Manage and grow Mercury's annual fund with a primary focus on donors giving up to $2,500 in partnership with the Development Director.
- Own a personal portfolio of entry and mid-level donors and prospects, with responsibility for cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
- Execute direct mail, email, and digital annual fund appeals in coordination with the marketing team.
- Track donor activity and moves management in Spektrix, maintaining clean and current records across the portfolio.
- Identify lapsed donors and execute re-engagement strategies to recover and grow the base.
- Monitor annual fund performance against goals and provide regular progress reports to the Development Director.
Gala Logistics and Support
- Serve as the primary logistics coordinator for Mercury's annual Gala, working closely with the Development Director, other team members, and event vendors.
- Manage event logistics including venue coordination, catering, rentals, run-of-show planning, and day-of execution, and post-event evaluation.
- Coordinate invitation production and distribution, RSVP tracking, and seating in partnership with the marketing team.
- Support sponsorship fulfillment and ensure Gala donors and sponsors receive appropriate recognition.
- Manage event volunteer coordination including recruitment, training, and on-site supervision.
- Collaborate with the Audience Experience Manager on silent auction logistics and ensure seamless integration with overall event operations
Donor Stewardship and Engagement - Process gifts, generate acknowledgments, and reconcile development records with Finance Manager in a timely manner.
- Draft acknowledgment letters, handwritten notes, and other donor communications that reflect Mercury's voice and values.
- Coordinate donor recognition across concert programs, the website, and other materials.
- Manage fulfillment of donor benefits and ensure timely, accurate delivery at all giving levels.
- Support the Development Director in preparing materials for major donor meetings and solicitations.
- Assist with donor cultivation events and ensure strong follow-up after each touchpoint.
- Support Board engagement in fundraising by preparing materials, tracking Board giving, and coordinating follow-up.
- Assist with campaign planning and execution, including Mercury's Beyond 25 Campaign and future growth initiatives.
What We Are Looking For
- At least 3 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising or development.
- Demonstrated experience in annual fund management, donor communications, and moves management.
- Strong writing skills with the ability to craft compelling donor correspondence and fundraising copy.
- Proficiency with CRM or fundraising databases. Spektrix experience is a plus.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- A collaborative, proactive working style with a genuine commitment to the mission.
- Experience supporting events or galas in a fundraising context.
- Experience in a performing arts organization or similar nonprofit environment preferred.
- Genuine curiosity and interest in classical music and the performing arts.
What Success Looks Like in the First 12 Months
- The annual fund is performing at or above goal, with donor retention up and the under-$2,500 pipeline growing.
- Gala logistics are well-managed, donor stewardship is strong, and the event executes seamlessly.
- Development records in Spektrix are accurate, current, and consistently maintained.
- The Development Manager is a trusted and reliable partner to the Development Director, executing with discipline and initiative across all fundraising activity.
- Donors at every level feel seen, appreciated, and connected to Mercury's mission.
What We Offer
- Salary: $45,000-$55,000, commensurate with experience.
- Employer-paid health insurance and life insurance.
- Generous personal time off.
- 401(k) retirement plan.
- Flexible schedule with some evening and weekend events.
- Modern office environment in River Oaks.
- Concert tickets for friends and family.
To Apply:
Submit a cover letter outlining interest and experience along with a resume to jobs@mercuryhouston.org. Include “Development Manager” on the subject line.
Location: Houston, TX
Website: http://www.mercuryhouston.org
Deadline: 12/31/26
Job Features1
| Job Category | Jobs |
| Closing Date | 05/19/25 |
| Location | Location |
| Website | Website |
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT
Victoria Symphony Society
Victoria, TX
https://www.victoriasymphony.com
Seeking a dynamic professional responsible for the consistent achievement of the organization’s mission and financial objectives while overseeing its day-to-day operations.
Organization: In its 53rd season, the Victoria Symphony Orchestra (VSO) is a well-established orchestra consisting of 60+ members serving the greater Victoria and south-central Texas region. The VSO season (September through April) currently consists of a subscription series of four classical masterworks concerts and one pops concert. Additional concerts and ensemble performances are also given as part of area community outreach and education programs. Series concerts are performed in the 1,481-seat state-of-the-art Victoria Fine Arts Center. The annual budget is approximately $800,000. The Music Director and Conductor is Darryl One of Modesto, CA.
Location: Victoria, Texas, is conveniently located near the Texas Gulf Coast and approximately a two-hour drive from Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. Victoria is centrally located in a region of roughly 200,000 people. Victoria offers numerous opportunities for commerce, education, and entertainment, including the Victoria Regional Airport; Victoria College; Texas A&M University-Victoria; the Victoria Mall; a regional transit system; public parks with fishing and water sports; the Texas Zoo; a conference center; centers/theatres for the performing arts; and various art, history, and science museums. Victoria plays host to other performing arts organizations and year-round concerts, ballets, plays, historical tours, and festivals for all ages. Victoria has a progressive medical community, featuring several hospitals and inpatient and outpatient clinics.
Duties and Qualifications: See Executive Director Job Description.
Compensation: Commensurate with experience.
Application: Please send a cover letter, resume, and completed Executive Director Application Form to jobs@victoriasymphony.com. In the subject line, type “VSO ED Application” and your name.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION
CLASSIFICATION
Full-time Exempt
ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW
The Victoria Symphony Society (VSS) is a professional arts organization located in Victoria, Texas. The VSS staff support the Music Director and 60+ musicians in executing a season of performances that includes five subscription concerts, four family/education concerts, an annual fundraising gala, and several special events. The Victoria Symphony Orchestra (VSO) performs in the 1,481-seat Victoria ISD Fine Arts Center. The VSS staff are responsible for all marketing, producing, fundraising, financial management, and administrative matters of the organization.
BROAD FUNCTIONS
The Executive Director serves as the day-to-day manager of the VSS and reports to the President of the Board of Directors (Board). The Executive Director serves as the administrative counterpart to the Music Director to maintain a fiscally sound and artistically superior orchestra. The Executive Director is responsible for managing the staff and financial resources to achieve the VSS’s mission and for leading the overall operations of the organization through effective management and financial development. The joint leadership of the Executive Director and the Music Director provide vision, guidance, and information needed to enable the Board to adopt progressive, sound, and practical plans for the continued evolution of the VSS. The Executive Director must be able to interact competently and respectfully with a culturally and ethnically diverse population of musicians, Board members, volunteers, and staff, and be able to work respectfully with all age groups. Most importantly, the Executive Director must have the ability to give direction and guidance and possess the self-assuredness and confidence to enforce rules and regulations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Revenue Enhancement
The Executive Director
works with the Board to develop strategies and define how key messages will be delivered to various individuals and institutions to maximize visibility, brand, and revenues of the VSO;
works with the Finance Committee in preparing and adhering to a yearly development plan to generate revenue objectives as established by the budget;
works with Board committee chairs to develop an annual fundraising plan, which includes the annual fund drive, sponsorships, grant applications, and special events;
works to develop and execute a marketing and communication plan to promote all programs and events, using appropriate advertising and publicity to achieve maximum season and single ticket sales;
ensures that all contributions and other support are acknowledged as may be required by law and as is otherwise appropriate, maintains accurate and complete records of financial contributions and other substantial support, and maintains a detailed accounting system of donors in coordination with other VSS staff;
prepares and submits grant applications and reports to foundations, corporations, and government agencies; and
makes presentations as requested by the President, Executive Committee, or other Board members.
Strategic Planning and Action Plan Implementation
The Executive Director
participates in the short-term operational and long-range strategic planning and implementation processes of VSS, including the effective mentoring and supervision of the organization’s compensated staff, mobilization of its technological resources, and responsibility for decision-making related to appropriate use of fiscal resources;
assists the Board in the development and implementation of a strategic plan for the orchestra that supports the artistic, financial, and public relations objectives of the VSS;
assists the Executive Committee in the development and implementation of current and long-range administrative and personnel planning to ensure effective structure and competent staffing;
in coordination with the Orchestra Personnel Manager, maintains and facilitates relationships with musicians and their Orchestra Committee;
works with the Board to recruit and select employees for approved staff positions;
supervises staff, reviews staff performance with the Board President, and performs annual staff assessments and goal setting; and
directs volunteers as necessary to help ensure the success of their activities.
Governance and Financial Management
The Executive Director
provides support to best utilize the talents and resources of the Board, stimulate involvement, and work closely with the Board to ensure strong fiscal health and effective governance of the VSS;
attends all committee meetings as requested and provides executive support which may include, but is not limited to, developing agendas, preparing reports, and ensuring that all meeting minutes are recorded and maintained;
provides the Board Treasurer with all bookkeeping details on a monthly basis for further analysis and reporting;
ensures that all financial obligations are paid on time in consultation with the Board Treasurer.
oversees the accurate and timely recording all financial information and transactions in the financial software system;
oversees the implementation of the payroll process for all musicians to ensure accurate and timely payment s;
maintains the Board’s confidence, safeguards operations by keeping information confidential, and adheres to all safety and housekeeping policies and procedures in the VSS Employee Handbook; and
contributes to the team effort by accomplishing related duties and special projects as needed and directed.
Institutional Growth and Branding
The Executive Director leads the staff in creating an environment that supports the VSS’s mission, including
cultural experiences for Victoria and surrounding communities, including symphonic performances and special events;
performance opportunities for musicians, performing arts groups, and educational groups
that promote creative musical and artistic talent; and
educational programs that foster knowledge and appreciation of symphonic music, with a special focus on youth.
The Executive Director serves as a connector between the organization and key outside groups and individuals by
seeking new opportunities, in conjunction with the Music Director, for performances throughout the South Texas region;
working with the Orchestra Personnel Manager and Patron Services Manager to manage contracts and coordinate all elements and logistics of concerts;
providing support to the Music Director as needed;
ensuring effective communication with the Board’s constituencies, volunteer groups, other arts organizations, public agencies, government agencies, and the general public; and
coordinating and overseeing all activities related to the VSS’s educational programs in collaboration with the Director of Education.
REQUIRED CHARACTERISTICS
The Executive Director applicant should
have the ability to understand and embrace the VSS’s unique mission, being sensitive to and supportive of the needs of its diverse constituencies, including subscribers, donors, Board members, volunteers, sponsors, community leaders, and administrative staff;
be a self-directed person who takes the initiative to start and complete projects;
be a results-oriented leader who has a keen ability to organize and motivate people to accomplish institutional goals while creating a sense of order and strategic direction;
represent the VSS in a positive manner, which will require superior interpersonal skills, verbal and written presentation abilities, and leadership qualities that include futuristic thinking, team building, and overall management talent;
have key attributes, such as an understanding of institutional image building, marketing, external relations, and fund development, and have the presence and capacity to move initiatives forward in each of these areas; and
be a model of integrity, fairness, high ethical standards, ingenuity, compassion, dedication, and enthusiasm.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
The Executive Director applicant should have
management experience in a non-profit organization, preferably in the performing arts;
basic proficiency in computer software;
a musical background (preferred);
a successful record in fundraising;
experience in marketing;
strong written and verbal communication skills;
strong interpersonal skills; and
well-developed organizational and motivational skills.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR APPLICATION FORM
Please copy and paste the questions and your responses into a separate file.
Full Name:
Address:
Phone Number:
Email:
Do you have a driver’s license?
Are you willing to relocate? (For applicants not already living in this area.)
What is your preferred minimum annual compensation (not including benefits)?
List at least three references with addresses and phone numbers:
Location: Victoria, Texas
Website: https://victoriasymphony.com/
Deadline: 05/31/27
Job Features1
| Job Category | Jobs |
| Closing Date | 05/19/25 |
| Location | Location |
| Website | Website |
More Jobs →
Art Opportunities
Art Mart Dates: November 20-22, 2026
Applications Deadline: Monday, October 19, 2026. Applications close at midnight Central Time.
Since 2003, the Art Mart has showcased the work of local and regional artists who work in a variety of styles, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, textile art, jewelry, mosaics, glass, and other media. Proceeds of the Art Mart benefit the participating artists and the Friends of the Bath House Cultural Center, a not-for-profit organization that supports year-round visual and performing arts programs at the center.
To apply and see booth fees and more:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1I1Tfby6zGKaSML8n1RfJaB-wsaXvFuUu/view
Deadline: 10/19/26
Location: Dallas, TX
Website: https://bathhouse.dallasculture.org
Job Features1
| Job Category | Opportunities |
| Closing Date | 05/19/25 |
| Location | Location |
| Website | Website |
Innovate Grant awards (2) $1,800.00 grants each quarter, to one Visual Artist and one Photographer. In addition, (18) honorable mentions (9 in art and 9 in photo), will be featured on our website and join a growing community of vibrant and talented artists. Innovate Grant's commitment extends beyond the grant cycle by promoting the work of selected winners and honorable mentions into the future. For more information and to apply visit https://innovateartistgrants.org
Innovate Grant supports artists and photographers through quarterly grants. We've simplified the grant process, so that artists and photographers can focus on making their innovative work. The work should speak for itself and our application reflects that.
Awards:
- 1 x $1,800.00 to a Visual Artist
- 1 x $1,800.00 to a Photographer
- 18 x Honorable Mentions
Explore the work of ALL Past Innovate Grant recipients and read their interviews at https://innovateartistgrants.org
How to Apply: Visual Artists and Photographers 18 years and older, from all around the world, are eligible to apply. All media and genres are accepted. All applicants retain the right to the work they submit. Apply today at https://innovateartistgrants.org
Category: Multiple disciplines and genres accepted
Deadline: Tuesday, December 15 2026 – Submit by 11:59PM Pacific Standard Time
$35 Application Fee for 3-10 Images of Your Work
Region: US & International
Awards: 2 x $1,800.00 USD Grants // 18 x Honorable Mentions
Apply Online Today
https://innovateartistgrants.org
Deadline: 12/16/26
Location: Online
Website: https://innovateartistgrants.org
Job Features1
| Job Category | Opportunities |
| Closing Date | 05/19/25 |
| Location | Location |
| Website | Website |
2026 Inaugural Grant Program
Do you have a collection item that needs conservation? Applications are now open for Art Preservation Fund's inaugural grant cycle.
Grants will support the interventive conservation treatment of art and heritage items held in nonprofit collections across the US via two funding tracks:
Track A for applicants who already have a treatment proposal and are ready to proceed (up to $25,000), and
Track B for those who need an expert to define scope and cost before treatment (up to $5,000).
Applications must be submitted through the web form by October 30, 2026 at 8pm EDT.
Nonprofits interested in applying are encouraged to attend the Art Preservation Fund's online info session on October 6th at 2pm EDT.
Location: United States of America
Website: https://www.artpreservationfund.org/grants
Deadline: 10/30/26
Job Features1
| Job Category | Opportunities |
| Closing Date | 05/19/25 |
| Location | Location |
| Website | Website |
More Opportunities →
Upcoming Events





