Conductor, 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, they rehearse weekly on Tuesday evenings, and perform at least three public concerts each year in the Huddersfield area.

Paddock 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 Leader is Christine Hoare, who has been principal violinist since 2013.

Following the departure of the orchestra’s Resident Conductor in early 2020, the orchestra has been supported by guest conductors, for both in-person rehearsals/concerts and online activity.  As the orchestra prepares to return to regular playing following a turbulent year of national and local lockdowns, we seek to appoint a new Conductor on a more permanent basis who can lead the orchestra in the next stage of its development. 

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 ensemble’s overall performance skills and musicianship;
• Conduct the orchestra, and guest soloists where appropriate, in public performances, including compèring such performances;
• Lead online/remote activities in lieu of in-person rehearsal as required during times of local/national lockdown;
• Attend 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 Programming Sub-Committee to select repertoire that is appropriate for the ensemble and scheduled concerts;

Rehearsals:
The orchestra meets on Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30pm (including a social break), at Community Centre, West View, Paddock, Huddersfield HD1 4TX. They usually meet approximately 40 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 will usually take place in the concert venue on the day of the performance. 

Renumeration:
Renumeration for 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. Renumeration will be reviewed annually by the 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 committee
• Effective and confident communicator
• A friendly and approachable demeanour.

Desirable:

• Experience of delivering online musical activities
• An understanding of the Huddersfield musical landscape.

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 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 cover 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)
• Contact details for two professional referees.

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

• Online trials will take place during June/July
• Music, selected by the Programming Sub-Committee, shall be issued in advance to prepare for the session
• Applicants shall receive a payment of £25 for delivery of the session. 
• Following the session, the shortlisted applicants shall have an informal discussion with selected members of the Committee to discuss the session and their application. 

Stage 3 – In-Person Trial
Paddock Orchestra hope to return to in-person rehearsals from September 2021 but we appreciate that remote recruitment does not allow the chance to find the perfect conductor fit that face-to-face interaction permits.  As such, in-person trials will take place in September to ensure the conductor is a good fit for the Orchestra, and that Paddock Orchestra is right for the Conductor.  Details for this trial will be discussed and agreed with shortlisted applicants following the Stage 2 Online Trial. The applicants shall be paid an agreed rate for any in-person trial rehearsals. Following the in-person trial, the position shall be reviewed and, upon mutual agreement, made permanent.

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 to support you in your role. To discuss any specific requirements please contact Marc Dunleavy 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 28TH MAY 2021

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 Marc Dunleavy on marc.dunleavy@googlemail.com or 07903 590920.