HIRING

ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR – BRISTOL UNIVERSITY SINGERS

Location: University of Bristol

Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 2:00–4:45 PM during term time

Fee: £25/hr with an estimated total fee for the year of around £4500

Start Date: 1/9/25

Deadline for application: 1/8/25 

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Interviews will take place via zoom the week commencing the 4th August 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an in-person interview and audition on the 13th August. If unavailable on this date please notify us on application.

About the Ensemble:
Bristol University Singers is the University’s flagship chamber choir, bringing together talented student musicians to perform a wide-ranging and ambitious repertoire. The choir performs regularly in high-profile concerts throughout the academic year, both within the University and in the wider Bristol community.

The Role:
We are seeking an enthusiastic and developing Assistant Conductor to support the musical direction of the ensemble for the 2025/2026 season. This is a self-employed opportunity suited to someone near the beginning of their professional journey, offering regular conducting experience, creative input, and the chance to be mentored by the Music Director and visiting conductors.

The role is offered on a freelance basis and is not a contract of employment with the University of Bristol. The Assistant Conductor will report directly to the Music Director of the University Singers and be paid by them.

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Key Responsibilities:

·       Assist in leading weekly rehearsals (Wednesdays, 2:00–4:45 PM) during university term time

·       Conduct the choir in concert performances as appropriate

·       Support the preparation of repertoire, occasionally taking sectional or full rehearsals

·       Contribute to creative planning, repertoire selection, and concert programming

·       Engage in professional development and receive mentorship from the Music Director

Person Specification:

·       Strong musicianship and choral conducting skills

·       Previous experience conducting vocal ensembles (formal or informal)

·       A passion for choral music and a desire to develop as a conductor

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

·       Ability to work collaboratively with student singers and the Music Director

Desirable:

·       Experience working with university-age singers

·       Familiarity with a diverse choral repertoire, from early music to contemporary works

·       Ability and willingness to sing with the choir when not conducting

Terms:

This is a freelance/self-employed role. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing their own tax and National Insurance contributions.

To Apply:

Please submit a brief CV and a covering letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to music-resources@bris.ac.uk by 12pm on the 1st August 2025.