Musical Director

The Louth Choral Society are looking for a dynamic, energetic and experienced Musical Director to start in January 2025. The Louth Choral Society is a mixed voice, auditioned adult choir (SATB) of around 45 experienced and enthusiastic singers. The choir has been in existence since the 1830s and performs a wide variety of choral music, both sacred and secular, from the 16th Century to the present day. We aim to achieve high standards of performance and hold three concerts per year, one of which is usually accompanied by professional musicians and soloists, and we also join in a community Carol Concert in December. Our home venue is in the magnificent Church of St James in Louth, although we have also performed in other town churches around Lincolnshire. We rehearse on Mondays at the Salvation Army (13 Church Street, Louth LN11 9BS) from 7.30-9.30 pm during term times and we have an excellent accompanist who plays at the rehearsals and concerts.

The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, driven and focused and have:

• an interest in exploring with the choir a variety of genres from medieval times to the present day;
• proven experience in choral conducting and a strong knowledge of vocal techniques and choral repertoire, and be able to maintain high standards by encouraging and developing choir members' vocal skills and musicality;
• proficient keyboard and vocal skills to assist in rehearsals for sectional work and be able to audition new members for their suitability;
• an interest and expertise in putting together appropriate and diverse repertoire that engages and challenges the choir and draws in a sizeable local audience;
• excellent communication and organisational skills and be prepared to work closely with the choir committee to support the programme and choir development;
• the ability to plan and communicate a rehearsal schedule for each concert;
• a good sense of humour and a positive and motivational approach to rehearsals.

This is a paid position. Renumeration is in the range of £4,000 per annum. The post would suit someone wishing to combine this with another job or role elsewhere.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to take a section of a rehearsal following interview.

Closing date: 5pm on 9th September 2024.

Invitations to interviews to be confirmed by 13th September.

Interviews will be held in the last two weeks of September (dates tbc).

Job specification and details of how to apply are available here:

https://www.louthchoral.co.uk/job-vacancy/

Interested applicants should make their enquiries via email to Clare fry at chair@louthchoral.co.uk.