Contact:
Alexander Knight
Email:
music.stmarys@richmondteamministry.org
Address:
St Mary Magdalene
Church Walk
Richmond
Locality:
Richmond
Postcode/Zip:
TW9 1SN
Musical Requirements:
St Mary Magdalene Church, Richmond, seeks to appoint Choral Scholars and Organ Scholars for the academic year 2023-2024 (September till end of July). We are looking for 4 Choral Scholars (SATB), who are each paid an annual honorarium of £1,500 plus extra fees for any weddings/funerals as available through the year. The Organ Scholar receives an annual honorarium of £2,000 - £2,500 (depending on experience) and generous extra fees for any weddings/funerals throughout the year.
The Choral Scholars will help to enhance and support the choir of St. Mary Magdalene. As well as having the opportunity to expand their knowledge of repertoire and technique, the scholars will be able to improve their abilities through a vast array of music making. The scholarship can serve as a solid foundation for those looking to seek choral scholarships at a university or college, and/or can help to consolidate and expand skills of those who may be studying at university or conservatoire.
The position of Organ Scholar involves assisting the Director of Music in all musical aspects of the services and rehearsals. There will be many opportunities for playing, conducting and contributing to the general running and organisation of the music department, which will include some work in managing the choir library. The scholarship can be designed to suit each candidate’s needs, focusing on conducting, playing, or a balance of the two.
The Organ Scholar may also sing when not playing, conducting or assisting another organist. Additionally, there is a monthly recital series and various choral concerts. Scholars are encouraged to perform in these concerts when required.
Under the direction of the Director of Music, Alexander Knight, and the Assistant Organist, each Scholar is expected to be present at all rehearsals and services during term time, as well as major Feast Days (Advent, Holy Week and Easter, Ascension Day, etc.) and concerts which may fall outside of term. Although not expected for Midnight Mass/Christmas Day, scholars will be expected to attend all other Advent, Christmas, Holy Week and Easter services. 6 weeks’ holiday is permitted during the term of the scholarship by agreement with the DoM. The Scholars may also have many opportunities for solo performances through the year by mutual agreement with the Director of Music. There will be a recital series as well as choral concerts. Choral Scholars are encouraged to perform as a quartet or as soloists. It is hoped the Scholars will have a thorough involvement in the music making and life of the church.
Other details:
Typical Weekly Timetable
Thursday
19.30 - 21.00 Choir Rehearsal
Sunday
08.45 - 09.20 Choir Rehearsal
09.30 - 10.45 Morning Eucharist
17.00 - 18.15 Choir Rehearsal
18.30 - 19.30 Choral Evensong
This list is not intended to be exhaustive and the Scholars may be asked to sing/play at other services on occasion. Some help maintaining and managing the choir library is required.
Application and Audition
The deadline for applications is 12.00noon, Monday 3 April. Auditions will take place on 15 and 16 April 2023.
To apply, candidates are asked to submit a complete CV along with a letter of application by email (preferable) or post to the Director of Music, Alexander Knight. Informal enquiries and visits to the church are most welcome.
Shortlisted Choral Scholar candidates will be invited to audition and will be asked to:
• Sing 2 contrasting works of their choice that best demonstrates their vocal ability and technique;
• Sight read a short piece;
• Sing one or two verses from a hymn and some verses of a psalm (Anglican chant).
Some aural tests may also be required at the discretion of the panel. After the audition, a short interview will take place with the Director of Music and Vicar.
Shortlisted Organ Scholar candidates will be invited to audition and will be asked to:
• Play two contrasting pieces chosen by the candidates (maximum 10 minutes in total):
- One by J.S. Bach;
- The other written after 1800
• Play the final two verses of a hymn, provided on the day of audition;
• Play a short sight-reading test;
• Prepare and play a psalm and anthem, provided 48 hours before the audition by
email.