• Take all (or the majority) of rehearsals for events/concerts undertaken by The Chantry Singers - Guildford and, except in cases where we mutually agree, the DoM is expected to be the conductor for our public performances.  In the event that the DoM is unable to take a particular rehearsal he/she is responsible for finding a suitable deputy.
• Plan all rehearsals to ensure the choir's readiness for all events.
• Accompany the choir during rehearsals.
• Audition all new members in a suitable manner to ensure they meet the standard agreed between the DoM and the choir's committee.
• Advise on the vocal balance of the choir and propose any appropriate action.
• Work with the choir’s committee to select and plan the repertoire.
• Subject to the approval of the Society's committee, book soloists, musicians, etc.
• Attend the Society's committee meetings (6-7 per year) on evenings other than the usual rehearsal evening.
• Actively promote the choir and provide opportunity for local young musicians to gain performance experience.

Experience & Skills

The successful candidate will have:

• Recognised professional musical training.
• Experience in training and conducting choirs and other musicians for public performances.
• Experience in leading rehearsals whilst also providing keyboard accompaniment.
• Experience to recommend suitable and balanced choral music programmes, players and soloists.
• Understanding of the financial constraints experienced by amateur choirs, planning programmes accordingly.
• The ability and desire to help improve both the choir’s sound as a whole, but also to address the vocal issues of individual choir members.

Personal

The successful candidate will be:

• Energetic, enthusiastic, adaptable and patient with a good sense of humour.
• Punctual, reliable and well-organised.
• Possessing of strong communication skills.
• Able to inspire the choir’s enthusiasm for a varied repertoire, but also willing to compromise when proposing music programmes.
• Willing to make a strong commitment to CS and to participate in occasional social events.

Contract

• The contract is a rolling annual contract and the DoM is re-elected by the members at the AGM.
• The contract may be terminated by either party by giving a mutually agreed period of notice.

Process & Planned Schedule

1. Interview-list confirmed by 12^th July.
2. Interview candidates (may be online or in person) by the end of August 2024.
3. Selected short-listed candidates take trial rehearsal with choir on either 3^rd or 10^th September 2024.
4. Survey choir members on candidates.
5. Aim to offer the preferred candidate role of DoM and appoint by 30^th September 2024.
6. New MoD will be expected to start taking rehearsals on 7^th January 2025 and the first concert will be on 5^th April 2025.

Applications

1. Please send your applications by email to:
   secretary@chantrysingers-guildford.org.uk.
2. If you have any queries regarding the application process, then please get in touch with John our chair at chair@chantrysingers-guildford.org.uk.
3. Your application will be acknowledged.
4. Your application should contain the following items:
   1. A covering email explaining why you are applying
   2. Personal details, contact information, education, background
   3. CV
   4. Contact details of 2 referees (name, address, email address & phone number)
   5. Suggested music programme for next two years
5. Closing date for applications is 21 June 2024. Applications after that date may not be considered.