Music Director, Bedfordshire Orchestral Society

Music Director, Bedfordshire Orchestral Society

As a result of the retirement of our long-standing and renowned conductor, Michael Rose, an exciting opportunity has become available to take up the position of Music Director with the Bedfordshire Orchestral Society. A final decision will be made by June 2024 for commencement in September 2024, and we are now inviting applications, with a view to carrying out interviews and trials during the 2023-2024 season. Under Michael Rose’s leadership the Bedfordshire Orchestral Society has established a reputation for high quality amateur and semi-professional performances of a wide range of classical music repertoire. The Society comprises two orchestras, the Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra (BSO) and the Bedford Sinfonia, and in this instance, we are seeking a permanent conductor of the Symphony Orchestra (BSO).

Those applying for the post of Music Director are expected to be experienced, enthusiastic, and motivating, with musicianship and conducting skills that are required for working with professional musicians and amateurs of a high standard. They should have knowledge of a broad range of orchestral repertoire, and strong leadership and communication skills.  They will be required to take all weekly rehearsals (approximately 10 per concert), currently held on Wednesday evenings during school term time in central Bedford, and conduct the three annual concerts which are performed in the Bedford Corn Exchange. The Director will also be expected to lead the evolution and development of the orchestra’s concert programming, with possible supplemental performing activities.

Interested candidates are asked to submit a one-page application to include name, email address, and contact phone number, along with a brief summary of musical education, conducting experience, and repertoire. Kindly submit your application to chair@bedfordsymphony.com, or by post to Mrs Louise Radok, 3 Pembroke Street, Bedford MK40 3RH.

The closing date for applications is 15th October 2023. All applicants will be notified of the results of the initial selection process by the end of October. Those selected for the short list will be asked  which of two dates they would be available, either Wednesday December 6 or Wednesday December 13, when they will be invited to rehearse the orchestra for 20 minutes on a selection of repertoire to be advised.

Beginning on 13 March 2024, the two resulting successful candidates will be asked to rehearse and conduct one half of the programme at the last BSO concert of the season on 18th May 2024, with repertoire chosen by the committee. After the concert, orchestral members will vote on their preference, and the winner will be notified by the beginning of June 2024.

For further information about the Society, please see our website: http://www.bedfordsymphony.com