Tour Management

Term from Orchestra Management industry explained for recruiters

Tour Management is the process of organizing and overseeing traveling performances for orchestras, musical groups, or performing artists. It involves coordinating all aspects of moving an ensemble from one venue to another, including travel arrangements, accommodation, scheduling, and logistics. Think of it as being similar to project management, but specifically for traveling musical performances. People in this role ensure that everything runs smoothly when an orchestra or musical group performs in different cities or countries.

Examples in Resumes

Coordinated Tour Management for a 90-piece symphony orchestra across 12 European cities

Led Tour Management and logistics for multiple international concert series

Handled Tour Management and Concert Tour planning for youth orchestra programs across three continents

Typical job title: "Tour Managers"

Also try searching for:

Concert Tour Manager Orchestra Tour Coordinator Touring Manager Performance Tour Director Arts Logistics Manager Tour Operations Manager Concert Series Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a last-minute venue cancellation during an international tour?

Expected Answer: A senior tour manager should discuss contingency planning, alternative venue relationships, insurance considerations, and communication strategies with stakeholders, demonstrating crisis management experience.

Q: Describe your experience with managing large-scale tour budgets and financial planning.

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with budget management, currency considerations, cost control strategies, and financial reporting for multi-city tours.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you coordinate travel and accommodation for large groups of musicians?

Expected Answer: Should explain experience with group bookings, managing dietary requirements, instrument transportation, and coordinating multiple vendors while staying within budget.

Q: What systems do you use to manage tour schedules and logistics?

Expected Answer: Should describe experience with scheduling software, communication tools, and methods for keeping track of multiple moving parts in a tour schedule.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key components you need to consider when planning a concert tour?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic elements like transportation, accommodation, venue requirements, schedules, and basic budget considerations.

Q: How do you maintain effective communication with various stakeholders during a tour?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic communication methods with musicians, venues, travel providers, and management team members.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic tour scheduling and coordination
  • Travel and accommodation booking
  • Budget tracking
  • Basic stakeholder communication

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Multi-city tour planning
  • Vendor relationship management
  • Crisis handling
  • Detailed budget management

Senior (5+ years)

  • International tour management
  • Strategic planning and risk management
  • Large ensemble coordination
  • Complex budget oversight

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with group travel coordination
  • Poor understanding of performing arts industry
  • Lack of crisis management experience
  • No knowledge of international travel requirements
  • Unable to demonstrate budget management skills