Musical Director

Portishead Choral Society is a mixed choir of about 70 singers formed in 1955 and based about 8 miles outside Bristol in Portishead, usually rehearsing in Portishead Methodist Church. We have a highly accomplished regular professional accompanist, Richard Lennox.

We have a wide, largely classical repertoire and, in recent years, have performed some challenging works with outstanding soloists and musicians. The choir is a welcoming, friendly community. We do not audition but do prefer our singers to have some ability to read music.

Rehearsals are held on Thursday evenings (7:30-9:30 pm) during school term times (about 36 rehearsals per year).  We usually perform three concerts a year: a Christmas concert in December, a major work in March/April and a concert of lighter work in June/July.

We need the leadership of a dynamic new musical director who will build on our competence and help to steer the future development of the choir. The successful candidate will be expected to collaborate closely with the Committee on the programming of music and creative direction. Our website (https://portisheadchoral.co.uk/) should answer most of your questions but please make contact directly to ask anything further.

The following qualities are desirable:

• Experience of conducting classical choral groups
• Ability to lead and inspire.
• Ability to programme imaginative and attractive concerts within agreed budgets.
• Experience of working with instrumentalists to accompany performances.
• Ability to help find musicians for concerts.
• Ability to contribute comments for programme notes.
• Willingness to develop our ‘a Capella’ repertoire and take us out into the community.
• A desire to encourage new members to join our versatile and fun group of singers.

Remuneration

The person appointed will be self-employed and will be contracted initially for one year (to be reviewed yearly).  Payment will be made at the end of each term on receipt of an invoice and will consist of:

• A fee of £70-£90 depending on experience for each 2-hour rehearsal.

• A concert day fee of £250, including an afternoon rehearsal.

Rates include planning and preparation time. Some contribution to travel costs may be negotiable.

Application process

If you are interested in this role, please send your CV with a covering letter outlining your vision for Portishead Choral Society, to our Chair Richard Wall:  richard.wall.4671@gmail.com

The closing date for applications is 31st March 2025. Selected candidates will be invited for interview and asked to lead a choir rehearsal in May. Rehearsals for the next year will start on 4th September 2025.