Sheffield Oratorio Chorus (SOC) is pleased to invite applications for the new post of Assistant Musical Director, with the successful candidate taking up the post on a self-employed basis, in September 2025.
Job Description
This is a new, permanent post created to support Sheffield Oratorio Chorus (SOC) in achieving its goal to remain at the forefront of classical music in South Yorkshire through high quality performance. SOC is a voluntary organisation and all paid roles are subject to funding and so the post will be reviewed annually.
The successful candidate will be appointed on a self-employed basis and there will be an initial six month probationary period.
You will work in close collaboration with our highly experienced, professional Musical Director (MD) in all aspects of the role from September 2025, including deputising for the MD, leading rehearsals in his absence, preparing and conducting performance works as delegated by the MD and supporting the administrative and preparation work that ensure concerts are a success.
The post would be suitable either for someone at the start of their career or for a more experienced applicant; support proportionate to experience will be provided by the MD.
For the first 6 months probationary period, it is expected that attendance at weekly rehearsals will be higher than 50% per term, while you familiarise yourself with the choir, your role and complete an initial period of induction. You will be paid the stated fee for all agreed attendance to carry out the responsibilities of the role. When not carrying out those responsibilities, you will be very welcome to attend as a singing chorus member on a voluntary basis in addition to the termly paid sessions.
This is a new post which is likely to evolve over time and you will play a key role in its development.
The role will involve attendance at rehearsals as agreed for 2 hours per week. Payment will be commensurate with experience from £30 up to £42 per hour.
Job Requirements
1. Excellent knowledge of music techniques, theory, and performance.
2. Effective interpersonal, communication and consultative skills.
3. Organised time management, multitasking, administration and planning.
4. Ability to work within the SOC governance and policy framework.
5. Willingness to contribute to meetings of the trustees.
6. Ability to deputise for the Musical Director at rehearsals and performances and conduct chorus and orchestral or other instrumental accompaniment.
7. Ability to support the Musical Director in all aspects of preparation for performances.
8. Ability to motivate and support Chorus singers to achieve high quality singing in rehearsals and performance.
9. Skills to assess Chorus members and prospective members to the required standard.
10. Skills to provide effective cover for the rehearsal accompanist.
11. Ability to deliver expert individual and group vocal coaching.
12. Ability to deliver motivational warm-up vocal sessions.
Job Responsibilities
1. Deputise for the MD when required.
2. Motivate and support chorus members to achieve continuous quality improvement.
3. Lead sectional rehearsals as required by the MD.
4. Support the MD with the auditions of prospective new or existing chorus members.
5. Assist in preparing the chorus to perform specific works.
6. Support the MD in all aspects of preparation for performances.
7. As agreed with the MD, take a lead role in preparing the chorus for one, or part of one concert per season and conducting that concert.
8. Contribute to planning of the annual concert programme.
9. If appropriate to skills, provide occasional cover for the regular accompanist in their absence.
10. Contribute to implementation of the SOC strategic development plan.
11. Attend scheduled SOC committee or sub-group meetings if requested by the MD or where meetings relate to the AMD role.
12. Work within the SOC governance framework.
13. Any other activity as agreed within the scope of the post and person specification.
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