Belfast Philharmonic Society Chorus Director

Belfast Philharmonic Society (the Society) is seeking an experienced, dynamic and inspiring music professional to lead our adult chorus into the next stage of its growth.

Belfast Philharmonic Choir (The Phil) was founded in 1874 and is Northern Ireland’s only symphonic chorus. The Phil has a distinguished history of performance in Belfast and beyond over all the intervening years. We are looking forward to celebrating our 150th anniversary in 2024. The Phil (c.120 members) performs regularly as part of the Ulster Orchestra’s main season under conductors engaged by the orchestra as well as organising our own concerts and events.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the Phil and working with the Board to build its quality, reputation and engagements.
• Preparing the Phil for performances of all works scheduled in the Phil’s season.
• Directing weekly Wednesday rehearsals in Belfast.
• Leading pre-rehearsal and other voice development activities and workshops.
• Attendance at all performances by the Phil, and at piano and orchestral rehearsals in which the Phil is involved.
• Responsibility for artistic standards of the Phil including auditioning new recruits and re-auditioning current members on an agreed frequent and regular basis.
• Setting with the Chair, and implementing standards for Phil members in their preparation, rehearsal, attendance, discipline, dress and presentation.
• Liaison with the Chair and Board of the Society to propose repertoire for the Phil and to collaboratively engage in setting direction and strategy for the chorus through and beyond the 150th anniversary season.
• Working with the Chair and Board of the Society to develop new performance, recording, touring and learning and engagement projects for the Phil.
• Liaison with the Ulster Orchestra’s (and other) conductors concerning the interpretation of repertoire.
• Liaison with the Honorary Secretary and Manager to create a rehearsal schedule and seating plan for each vocal project.
• Liaison with the Manager concerning day-to-day operational matters affecting the Phil.
• Liaison with the Honorary Secretary and Manager regarding rehearsals, auditions and re auditions.
• Communication with the Artistic Director of the Belfast Philharmonic Phil Kids, Youth and Chamber Choirs regarding joint opportunities and collaboration. As the post may involve working with children and young people, the successful candidate will be required to undergo an AccessNI Enhanced Disclosure in line with the Society’s Safeguarding Children and Young Adults at Risk Policy.

For full information on the role please download the Job Description & Person specification along with application and monitoring form from the website. For any questions about the role or application process please email manager@belfastphilharmonic.org.uk