Rushmoor 'Odd Fellows' Male Voice Choir Musical Director

Vacancy Type:

Application deadline:

Wednesday, 30 November 2022

Description of vacancy:

Rushmoor Odd Fellows Male Voice Choir, variously known as the Rushmoor Male Voice Choir or ‘The Odds’, an established 35 strong male voice choir, friendly, community-based choir on The Hampshire/Berkshire/Surrey borders, are seeking a new Musical Director. We are looking for an outstanding choral musician from January 2023. Our current MD, Stephen Petch, after 45 years, is moving on to pastures new.

We perform 2 main concerts a year, at the Maltings (Farnham) and the High Cross Church (Camberley). In addition, we perform in various locations such as church halls, hospitals and the like mainly in the Blackwater Valley area to help raise money for local charities, on average once a month. We have a rest period during August and early September. We rehearse in North Camp Methodist Hall (Farnborough GU14 6EG) on Monday evenings with an accomplished accompanist and are a keen, friendly and welcoming choir with a caring ethos. Our aims are to provide the opportunity for all to experience the joy of male choral singing; to continue to improve performance standards within the framework of an amateur unauditioned choir; and to support local charities wherever possible - and most importantly to have fun!

We are seeking a Musical Director who:

Will be an inspirational, enthusiastic and encouraging leader with strong communication skills with individuals, committees, and other organisations. PLUS, a good sense of humour! Someone who will enjoy themselves leading this choir.
Has the ability and patience to convey musical requirements and expectations clearly and in a sensitive way so that choir members of all abilities can flourish
Can set and achieve high standards of vocal performance from the choir's particular skill base and improve what we have already achieved.
Show commitment & encouragement for the personal development of choir members and give opportunities to maximise their abilities.
Able to collaboration with other choirs and MD's when RMVC participates with other MVC's in joint events
Will initiate and develop sectional voice leaders and soloists in the Choir.
Will support and engage with choir initiatives where appropriate/requested eg Recruitment, Promotional events.
Will develop and provide vocal practice aids (Note -we currently use Noteworthy).
Is a choral conductor with good experience of a wide range of music which both attract new singers and supporters
Has experience of presenting attractive classical and popular concert programmes to suit both choir and audience. Programmes will be prepared well in advance of the concert to allow for rehearsal and confident delivery.
Has a range of contacts within the music profession.
Is able and willing to engage with and give full support to the choir at rehearsals and concerts, social events and committee meetings
Is available for Monday night rehearsals