Overview
The Chantry Singers of Guildford is a chamber choir of around 30 mixed voices which performs a varied repertoire of sacred and secular music from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works. It is one of the foremost chamber choirs in the area.  It typically performs three concerts a year and rehearses on Tuesday evenings in term time at the Burpham Church, New Inn Lane. It is looking for a new Music Director to continue the development of the choir following the appointment of Peter Hicks as the new first countertenor of the Kings Singers.   The Music Director (MD) has the task of developing and improving the musical quality of the choir in concert performances.  For both self-promoted and joint events it is envisaged that the MD would:-

• Take all (or the majority) of rehearsals for events/concerts undertaken by The Chantry Singers - Guildford and, except in cases where we mutually agree, the MD is expected to be the conductor for our public performances.  In the event that the MD is unable to take a particular rehearsal he/she is responsible for finding a suitable deputy.
• Plan all rehearsals to ensure the choir's readiness for all events.
• Accompany the choir where necessary during rehearsals, as well as conducting, as The Chantry Singers - Guildford does not have a regular accompanist.
• Audition all new members in a suitable manner to ensure they meet the standard agreed between the MD and the choir's committee.
• Advise on the vocal balance of the choir and propose any appropriate action.
• Work with the choir’s committee to select and plan the repertoire.
• Subject to the approval of the Society's committee, book soloists, musicians, etc.
• Attend the Society's committee meetings (6-7 per year) on evenings other than the usual rehearsal evening.
• Actively promote the choir and provide opportunity for local young musicians to gain performance experience.

Professional Skills

Experience & Skills

The successful candidate will have:

• Recognised professional musical training.
• Experience in training and conducting choirs and other musicians for public performances.
• Experience in leading rehearsals whilst also providing keyboard accompaniment.
• Experience to recommend suitable and balanced choral music programmes, players and soloists.
• Understanding of the financial constraints experienced by amateur choirs, planning programmes accordingly.
• The ability and desire to help improve the choir’s vocal sound.

Personal

The successful candidate will be:

• Energetic, enthusiastic, adaptable and patient with a good sense of humour.
• Punctual, reliable and well-organised.
• Have strong communication skills.
• Willing to compromise when proposing music programmes.
• Able to inspire the choir's enthusiasm for a varied repertoire.
• Willing to make a strong commitment to CS and to participate in occasional social events.

Contract

• The contract is a rolling annual contract and the MD is re-elected by the members at the AGM.
• The contract may be terminated by either party by giving a mutually agreed period of notice.

Application Process

Process & Planned Schedule

1. Closing date for applications is 28th February 2026.  Applications received after that date may not be considered.
2. Interview-list confirmed by 13th March 2026.
3. Interview candidates (may be online or in person) by the 24th April 2026.
4. Selected short-listed candidates take trial rehearsal with choir in May (likely to be 12th, 19th or 26th).
5. Survey choir members on candidates.
6. Aim to offer the preferred candidate role of MD and appoint by mid June 2026.
7. New MD will be expected to start taking rehearsals on 8th September 2026.

Applications

1. Please send your applications by email to:
   secretary@chantrysingers-guildford.org.uk.
2. If you have any queries regarding the application process, then please get in touch with John our chair at chair@chantrysingers-guildford.org.uk.
3. Your application will be acknowledged.
4. Your application should contain the following items:
   1. A covering email explaining why you are applying
   2. Personal details, contact information, education, background
   3. CV
   4. Contact details of 2 referees (name, address, email address & phone number)
   5. Suggested music programme for next two years