Orchestral Leader

Vacancy Type: 

Orchestral Leader

Application deadline: 

1st March 2021

Description of vacancy

Northampton Symphony Orchestra is an amateur orchestra based in Northampton. The orchestra rehearses from September to July each year, normally giving six concerts in each season. We are looking to appoint an experienced and charismatic leader, to start this season subject to Government lockdown restrictions.

Rehearsals are most Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm to 9.45pm in the Rubbra Hall, NMPAT, 125 Kettering Road, Northampton NN1 4AZ. The rehearsal venue may change during the current government restrictions.

We are seeking a violinist with orchestral and/or section leader experience, to give inspiration and confidence to our well-established string section and lead the orchestra with style and empathy, enhancing our tradition of friendliness and the enjoyment of making music together.

To register your interest, please email your C.V. to secretary@nso.org.uk giving details of your experience and suitability for this role, together with a statement about your background and the qualities and commitment you would bring to the orchestra. 

Please make sure you include all your contact details.

The Job Description below gives full details of the role and the required qualities. 

Our website is www.nso.org.uk and gives more information about the orchestra. 

 Job Description

Orchestra Leader

1. Experience and education:

1.1. A music degree or masters with violin performance a strong component (equivalent experience or education will be considered) 

1.2. Experience of orchestral playing

1.3. Experience of orchestral leading (desirable) 

1.4. Substantial performance experience as soloist and/or orchestral musician

1.5. Experience of working with adult amateur musicians (desirable) 

2. Role and Responsibilities:

2.1. Inspirationally lead the orchestra for all concerts and rehearsals, including performing orchestral solos as and when the repertoire demands 

2.2. Organise bowing of music, and ensure the violin parts are marked by the second rehearsal of each concert, although ideally prior to the first rehearsal for each concert programme

2.3. Work in tandem with the Orchestra Musical Director in the preparation and performance of the music

2.4. Within the violin section be sensitive to the abilities of individual players and be able to help nurture confidence and enthusiasm within the whole string section

2.5. Make arrangements to provide a deputy if possible, acceptable to the Orchestras Musical Director, as a substitute when prevented by illness or any other unavoidable cause from leading rehearsals personally

2.6. Attend all planned concerts (including rehearsals on the concert day) performed by the orchestra each season

2.7. Attend all rehearsals (with the exception of circumstances cited in 2.5) as timetabled by the committee 

3. Personal Attributes

3.1. Be able to work with players with varying degrees of musical ability 

3.2. Ability to encourage and foster excellent music making 

3.3. Have a friendly demeanour and be approachable

3.4. Have a passion for the concert orchestral repertoire

3.5. Punctual attendance, arriving at least 15 minutes before each rehearsal and/or concert 

4. Committee Meetings

4.1. Attendance at committee meetings would be welcomed but is not compulsory. (Reimbursement of expenses will be paid).

4.2. Work in tandem with the Orchestra Musical Director and Committee in planning repertoire 

5. Remuneration

5.1. The orchestra will pay a fee to be agreed for Wednesday evening rehearsals and the concert days 

5.2. The level of the remuneration will be reviewed and agreed on an annual basis for each season. Any extra concerts and rehearsals will be paid pro rata.

6. Contract Period 

Initially for one year subject to agreement by both parties, to continue thereafter subject to three months’ notice by either party.

7. Timetable

Deadline for applications: 1st March 2021

Trial rehearsal dates, depending on number of applicants and subject to current government lockdown restrictions are to be confirmed