Beaminster Singers seek a new Director of Music

Tue 4 March 2025

Beaminster Singers, an auditioned mixed choir of some 40 voices, seek a new Director of Music from the autumn of 2025.

The choir is large enough to tackle substantial works – but small enough to concentrate
on detail and they pride themselves on a high standard of performance. The choir
performs music from the 16th to 21st Centuries, from a cappella to major choral
works with professional orchestras and soloists. Please visit their website
www.beaminstersingers.org for further information about past and future concerts.

They mainly perform in St Mary’s Church, Beaminster, but have also performed in other churches and other venues in the surrounding area.

They are looking for a trained choral and orchestral conductor with:
● experience of conducting large events and orchestral direction
● excellent choir training and musical skills
● a wide knowledge of choral repertoire
● excellent interpersonal skills
● the ability to work with the choir’s committee to programme imaginative and attractive concerts
● a sense of humour and infectious enthusiasm
● organisational and practical skills
● experience of fixing an orchestra and soloists
● the ability to coach the choir in a range of languages

The new Director will have the full engagement of the committee in developing an interesting and challenging programme and in furthering their own professional skills.

The choir rehearses, with a professional piano accompanist, on Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at St John’s RC Church, Beaminster. Two regular concerts are performed throughout the year, with occasional additional events such as workshops and one-off concerts.

The Musical Director will be appointed on a self-employed basis, with a competitive rate of remuneration in line with the Musicians’ Union for rehearsals and for concerts, based on experience.

To arrange an informal discussion about the position or more information please contact the Co-Chairs John Ryde and Rosemary Rychnovsky at beaminstersingers@gmail.com. To apply, please send a curriculum vitae and covering letter to beaminstersingers@gmail.com. The closing date for applications is
Wednesday 23rd April.