Conductor

ABOUT PADDOCK ORCHESTRA
Paddock Orchestra is a well-established amateur orchestra that is known for both the quality of its music and for its friendly, welcoming approach. With approximately 40 members, Paddock Orchestra rehearses weekly, on Tuesday evenings, and performs at least three public concerts each year in the Huddersfield area. The orchestra is non-auditioned, preferring orchestral trials over formal auditions. The orchestra plays a range of classical music, often welcoming local soloists for concerto performances, and has an extensive library of music. The orchestra's leader is Olwen Hobson, who has been principal violinist since 2021. For more information about Paddock Orchestra, including details of previous concerts and programmes, please visit www.paddockorchestra.org

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Conductor shall:

• Lead weekly rehearsals, preparing the orchestra for public performances as well as developing the ensembles overall performance skills and musicianship.
• Conduct the orchestra, and guest soloists where appropriate, in public performances, including compering such performances.
• Attend orchestra committee meetings as required, reporting and advising on music related matters, including preparing a Conductor's report once a year for the orchestra's Annual General Meeting (AGM).
• Work with the committee's programming sub-committee, helping to select repertoire that is appropriate for the ensemble and scheduled concerts.

Rehearsals:
The orchestra meet on Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30pm (including a social break), at The Quaker Meeting House, 34 Church Street, Paddock HD1 4TR The orchestra usually meets approximately 36 weeks per year.

Performances:
The orchestra aims to perform public concerts at least three times per year. Concerts are usually local to Huddersfield, but occasionally further afield. An additional rehearsal takes place in the performance venue on the day of the performance. We usually try to schedule a rehearsal on the Friday evening before the concert.

Remuneration:
Remuneration of the role is negotiable, depending on the experience of the selected candidate, although this will be within the financial constraints under which the amateur music-making ensemble has to operate. Remuneration will be reviewed annually by the orchestra committee.

ABOUT YOU

Essential:

• Demonstrable experience as a conductor/musical director/music leader
• Experience of working with amateur or community ensembles
• Wide ranging knowledge of orchestral repertoire
• Willingness to work collaboratively with the orchestra committee.
• Effective and confident communicator
• A friendly and approachable demeanor.

The social aspect of Paddock Orchestra is of key interest to its members. Whilst musical understanding and ability are key to this role, your ability to engage and motivate an enthusiastic amateur orchestra made up of players of varying abilities is of equal importance.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Stage 1 - Expression of Interest
Interested applicants should submit an expression of interest. This should include:

• A covering letter, outlining why you are interested in conducting Paddock Orchestra and how your experience will serve you in the role (max 1-side of A4)
• A CV outlining your previous roles and experience (max 2 sides of A4)

Stage 2 – Meet the Orchestra
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to prepare and deliver a short (1 hour) rehearsal with members of the orchestra:

• Music, selected by the Programming Committee, shall be issued in advance to prepare for the session.
• Following the session, the shortlisted applicants shall have an informal discussion with selected members of the orchestral committee to discuss the session and their application.

Stage 3 – Joining Us
Paddock Orchestra will need to fulfill this position from September 2023. We would need a 12-month commitment from the successful applicant which will be reviewed on an annual basis.

We encourage applications from individuals who consider themselves underrepresented, including those with disabilities. We will make any reasonable adjustments required for any part of the recruitment process and support you in your role. To discuss any specific requirements please contact Steve Verity on the details below.

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please send your expression of interest by email to Steve Verity, Chairman: steve@paddockorchestra.org

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS FRIDAY 26 MAY 2023
If you have any questions regarding the application process, wish to discuss access needs or simply want to know more about Paddock Orchestra, please contact Steve Verity (Chair) on steve@paddockorchestra.org or steve.verity@blueyonder.co.uk