Musical Director and Conductor

Job Description

Dartmouth Orchestra is looking to appoint a new Music Director and Conductor when our dynamic and talented MD Tim Pithers moves away from Devon in December. We are a small but ambitious amateur chamber orchestra, based in Dartmouth and rehearsing in Totnes. Players travel from across the South Hams and beyond.  The orchestra is a registered charity (1085224), and we are keen to take our music to new venues and new audiences while supporting local charities through our music. The orchestra is keen to encourage young musicians and to offer them opportunities to join in at a level with which they feel comfortable, and which will help them to develop their skills, for example with open rehearsals. The orchestra  performs three or four major classical concerts a year.

We are seeking a Music Director and Conductor who is dynamic, enthusiastic, and able to lead the musical development, programming and future of the orchestra. The successful applicant will play a key role in leading the development and delivery of our concert programmes so will need to demonstrate ideas based on a solid back/repertoire knowledge that offers exciting, varied programming covering a range of classical music styles.

Post: Musical Director and Conductor

Appointed by, and responsible to: Dartmouth Orchestra Committee.

Salary level:    To be agreed in line with Musicians Union/ Making Music guidelines and reflect the candidate’s experience.

Applications - please email CV and supporting material to:  info@dartmouth-orchestra.co.uk

Ambition

To build our reputation for delivering quality performances, while maintaining the friendly, inclusive atmosphere and strong community feeling within the orchestra.

Specific Responsibilities

1) To conduct the orchestra at all rehearsals and performances; dates and times to be agreed with the committee. To facilitate a deputy, in case of an emergency.

2) To assume the responsibility for the artistic direction of orchestra performances.

3) To work with the orchestra leader, orchestra section leaders and performers on musical technique.

4) To work with the committee to foster a balance between musical excellence and the enjoyment of music making, through a non-threatening atmosphere that is encouraging, inspirational,  exciting, musically valuable.

5)Prepare a rehearsal schedule with the committee.

Additional information

The post holder is required to give 6 months’ notice of intention to resign, though agreement for earlier resignation can be discussed with the committee

Rehearsals are held from 7.30 to 9.30 pm in Totnes Methodist church. The three major concert terms are:-

• September to December, with a  concert in December
• January to May, with concerts in February and/or May
• May to July. With a concert in July

Dates dependent on venue confirmation.

Orchestra website: https://www.dartmouth-orchestra.co.uk/