Dunshaughlin Choral Society are seeking applications for the position of Musical Director, to commence September 2020. To apply, please send a CV and cover letter to [email protected]. Deadline: Monday 23rd March, 5pm.

Background Information:
Dunshaughlin Choral Society has been in existence for 45 years. We are a 50 member SATB community choir and enjoy singing a wide variety of music, from church music to pop songs. We enjoy performing locally, regularly take part in competitions and have recently ventured abroad, performing in Praga Cantat 2015.

Our members are from all walks of life. There are no auditions and formal musical training is not assumed, therefore it is important for our Musical Director to be an encouraging teacher as well as a confident director.

As Musical Director, you will have the weekly assistance of our excellent accompanist, Ciara Vaughan. Ciara has worked with the choir for many years and will be an excellent resource and assistant to you. In addition, each section has a leader who can assist with section practices and will help identify and resolve problems. Practice rooms and keyboards are available for each section at Monday night rehearsals.

You will be a member of and have the support of a very active Committee during your tenure. This Committee is highly experienced in all logistical aspects of managing the choir. You will have every support you need in preparing for any performances that the Committee decides to stage.

It is the policy of the choir to perform without music. However, rare exceptions have been made. The use of recordings is encouraged and members are free to record during rehearsals as required.

Duties:
1. Lead weekly rehearsal in St. Patrick’s Hall, Dunshaughlin every Monday 8-10pm (except public holidays). 8-8.30pm warm-up, 8.30-10pm with accompanist.
2. Provide email to group weekly with homework and plan for the following week’s rehearsal.
3. Attend committee meetings as required and provide musical input.
4. Direct choir in the Dunshaughlin Harvest Festival concert held annually towards the end of September.
5. Design and deliver a Christmas concert of between 1 hour 15 mins and 1 hour 30 mins in length, drawing on choir’s existing repertoire and new material of your choosing. This concert takes place in the Catholic church in Dunshaughlin usually on the first Sunday in December. A second concert may be held the following Sunday in a nearby church as a joint fund raiser with the local national school. Dress rehearsals will be required on the day of the concert around 2-4pm.

Qualifications and Experience:
Qualified to Degree level in Music or Music Education
or
Qualified to Diploma level by a recognised exam board (instrument, voice, conducting)

Choral conducting experience
Knowledge of vocal technique
Knowledge of appropriate choral repertoire
Keyboard skills
Teaching experience

Interpersonal Skills:
Patient, approachable and fun
Interactive and relaxed
Ability to explain clearly and demonstrate
Dedicated and enthusiastic teacher
Strong leadership skills
Good attention to detail
Excellent time management and time-keeping skills