Music at St John’s
For several years the Parish of St John, Notting Hill has been involved in a major renewal and restoration campaign called Restoring The Future. Central to this programme has been the complete restoration and relocation of St John’s historic organ (www.stjohnsorganproject.com), and the development of a choral music scheme with the appointment of four Choral Scholars.
The project established a high quality liturgical music-making by a team of Choral Scholars, led by the Director of Music, James Speakman, representing significant musical opportunities for the right candidate to work in a creative and opportunity-filled environment. In 2022, the Parish expanded the number of Choral Scholars from four to five.
The Choral Scholarship
The Choral Scholarship scheme at St John’s is now in its eighth year. Choral Scholars play a central role in the musical ministry of the church. Choral Scholars will have the chance to develop their skills and techniques by being exposed to a wide range of repertoire and musical opportunities. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to work alongside our Musicians-in-Residence. It is also hoped that Choral Scholars will bring their own artistic interests and activities into the life of the church, thereby enhancing the musical environment of St John’s.
Under the direction of the Director of Music, Choral Scholars are expected to be present at all services and rehearsals during term time, as well as major services that fall out of term (Advent Sunday, Ascension Day, Easter Sunday etc.). Choral Scholars are not expected to work on Christmas Day. Absences are permitted, and Choral Scholars must find suitable deputies (approved by the Director of Music), who they reimburse directly (an allowance for this is already factored into the yearly remuneration).
The Choral Scholars have ample opportunity to perform throughout the year; it is expected that Choral Scholars will give at least one concert per year at the church.
However, the scope for further performance is significant, and it is hoped that Choral Scholars will be enthusiastic to avail themselves of this opportunity.
Candidates should have previous experience of choral and/or solo singing and be a competent sight reader. Previous experience of church music is highly desirable, though not necessarily essential. Most importantly, an enthusiasm for music is essential and successful candidates will have a desire to immerse themselves fully in all aspects of the musical life of the church.
Vacancies
Typical Weekly Timetable
Every Sunday:
9:30am to 10:15am Choir Rehearsal
10:30am to 11:45am Choral Evensong
One Sunday in a Month
5:30pm to 6:15pm Choir Rehearsal
6:30pm to 7:30pm Choral Evensong
Application and Audition
directorofmusic@stjohnsnottinghill.com
(cc’ed to office manager@stjohnsnottinghill.com)
020 7727 4262
Director of Music
St John’s Notting Hill
Lansdowne Crescent
London, W11 2NN
The Director of Music would like to hear as soon as possible from any potentially interested candidates. Closing date 1st April. To apply, please submit a CV or a short description of your musical experience hitherto. This should be sent to the Director of Music, James Speakman, preferably by email, at the addresses below, copying in the office manager. Candidates should also feel at welcome to address any queries relating to the post to the Director of Music prior to their email, should they wish.
Candidates will be invited to audition. Auditions will take place in person at St John’s. For the audition, candidates will need to prepare a piece of their own choice, and they will be given a sight-reading exercise, as well as some general musicianship tests.
For any other details, please do not hesitate to contact the Director of Music