Andrew Patner Fellowship (paid)

The 2024 Andrew Patner Fellowship at Classical WFMT Chicago is a unique opportunity for the next generation of students and early-career professionals in the arts and music to gain experience at a Chicago media organization and arts institution.

GENERAL INFORMATION

- The Andrew Patner Fellowship is open to individuals 18 years or older who either are currently enrolled in a program of higher education, or have been out of school for 12 months or less.

- The fellowship is named for journalist, broadcaster and author Andrew Patner (1959-2015), who worked for WFMT as the host of Critical Thinking and as the station’s Critic-at-Large. 

- Candidates should have a demonstrable interest in the arts (particularly music); as well as at least one of media, journalism, broadcasting, and audio/video production.

- The Fellowship is set for 13 weeks at 40 hours per week. Ideally the successful candidate will work full-time over the summer, but WFMT is open to structuring the Fellowship as a combination of part-time and full-time work, particularly for candidates based in the Chicago area year-round. Exact dates of employment are flexible.

- Depending on the successful candidate’s interests, existing skill set, educational level, and organizational needs, this year’s Fellow can work with our expert WFMT staff on projects in both radio and digital formats.

- In order to give the successful candidate the opportunity to devote themselves full-time to a fellowship, the Fellow will be paid $18 per hour.

KEY OPPORTUNITIES

- Participate in the day-to-day operations of WFMT and the WFMT Radio Network and receive mentorship from the WFMT team. 

- Introduction to the leadership of WFMT’s parent organization, Window to the World Communications, Inc., and exposure to institutional areas including development, marketing, and engineering operations.

- Assist WFMT producers and hosts with research and production, including coordinating with artists, ensembles, and organizations from around Chicago and around the world.

- Assist with in-house productions such as Live from WFMT, Introductions, Folkstage, the Ryan Opera Center Recital Series, Sounds Classical, and off-site concert recordings and broadcasts such as the Grant Park Music Festival and the Ravinia Festival

- Participate in broad editorial and production planning and assist in producing content for broadcast and for wfmt.com.

SKILLS

- Excellent oral and written communication skills.

- Ability to multi-task and work independently.

- A knowledge of the Chicago-area arts scene, particularly in classical music.

- Digital publication experience including audio, video, and photo editing is helpful but not required.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants should submit a resume and a cover letter expressing their qualifications and their interest in the fellowship. Applicants are welcome to add examples of their writing, journalism, or multimedia production, but such supporting materials are not necessary.

Application Deadline: Tuesday April 30, 2024.

ABOUT WFMT

WFMT Chicago is one of the world’s most respected classical music radio stations broadcasting on 98.7FM from Chicago, and streaming worldwide at wfmt.com and on the WFMT app. Recognized for trusted hosted programming, immersive live performances and concerts, strong partnerships with community organizations, and championing young local musicians and access to the arts, WFMT spotlights inspiring music, musicians, and musical performances from Chicago and around the world. WFMT produces original series from its studios in Chicago, including weekly series Sounds Classical and Exploring Music with Bill McGlaughlin. WFMT produces live folk and singer-songwriter programming including Folkstage and The Midnight Special. As a strong and treasured Chicago cultural organization, WFMT also syndicates audio programs about arts and culture for radio stations and other platforms around the world through the WFMT Radio Network, including from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and many more.

WFMT’s purpose – to enrich lives, engage communities, and inspire exploration – is fueled by membership support. With a shared commitment to and love for music that sparks curiosity, celebrates diversity, and soothes the soul, WFMT will continue to take listeners on an entertaining and fun journey of discovery – to inspire people of all ages to explore different kinds of music – for years to come.