Conductor

The Stondon Singers, an accomplished chamber choir specialising in a cappella singing from Byrd to Britten and beyond, seeks a conductor to succeed Hilary Punnett, who has been appointed Assistant Director of Music at St Paul’s Cathedral.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and knowledgeable person, who is keen to develop the choir and challenge its abilities and repertoire. Experience of conducting and keyboard skills are essential, together with a deep understanding of voices and vocal technique. The post commences in September 2025.

Rehearsals: Tuesdays 7.45-10 pm in Chelmsford. Fees in line with MU rates.

The successful candidate is expected

• To conduct weekly rehearsals in Chelmsford on Tuesday nights 7.45-10pm throughout the year except for school holidays.
• To conduct 4 – 6 concerts a year and occasional workshop days.
• To be responsible for choosing and compiling programmes of music for concerts, with the support of the choir committee, making use of our extensive library and/or hired music.
• To formulate future concerts no less than 9 months ahead of time in consultation with the committee.
• To write programme notes and/or talk about the music during the performance to enhance the audience’s understanding and appreciation of the works being performed.
• To provide a suitable deputy for agreed absences. Emergency cover can be provided from within the choir.
• To attend Committee meetings once every half term, on Tuesday night prior to rehearsal. To join in a longer planning meeting on a different evening, once a term, either in person or on Zoom.
• To seek ways and opportunities to expand our repertoire, develop audience base and performance venues.
• The appointed conductor will be expected to sign a contract based on the standard contract drawn up by “Making Music”.

Applications should include 

• Letter explaining suitability for the post.
• Full CV giving details of experience.
• Proposed concert programme for an SATB chamber choir, singing in up to 8 parts, to demonstrate programming abilities. The programme should be in two halves with an interval, around 90 minutes in total. Please provide either an overall theme, plus half the concert programme in detail or half in outline, half in detail.

Please send your application to the Choir Secretary by email: stondonsingers@gmail.com