We are hiring a new Accompanist

The London Humanist Choir is looking for a new Accompanist to start 22 Feb 2022. We are a non-auditioned choir which sings to a high musical standard, enjoys a fun but busy rehearsal and performance schedule, and sings a wide range of secular repertoire. We perform throughout the year at festivals (including Edinburgh Fringe), community events and our annual One Life concert each June. We’re looking for someone who can enhance our learning and enjoyment of choral singing, but who also brings a skill and passion for contemporary music. 

We need a strong piano accompanist that can play scores as well as chords and vocal warm-ups. This position would suit someone who is looking to build on their accompanying skills, gain choral conducting experience, and vocal training experience, with the support of a fantastic Committee and experienced Musical Director. There could be opportunities to arrange music for the Choir, to lead sectional rehearsals, work on audio recordings and fill in for the Musical Director for some performances as needs arise. A sympathy with humanist ideals is also important as you will be working in a non-religious environment. We rehearse on Tuesday evenings in central London.

About the choir

The choir is 12 years old, and our musical director Laurel Neighbour has been leading us for over eight years. We continued as a virtual choir throughout lockdown and returned to in-person rehearsals in September. Membership has fluctuated between 20-35 members with a balanced mix on each voice part. Musical backgrounds vary, with mostly good readers and some who learn by ear. 

Our repertoire

We sing a mix of traditional secular choral music (The Long Day Closes, Shenandoah), contemporary pop songs (Lovely Day, Everywhere), and some original songs and arrangements (Teapot, Doctor Who Theme). A good sampling of last year’s repertoire can be seen in our virtual choir videos on YouTube.

Rehearsals and performances

You will be expected to attend all rehearsals and performances. We rehearse every Tuesday night from 7:00 - 9:00 near Kings Cross/Euston stations, with a break each half term. Performances typically include our annual concert, a Festive sing-along, Christmas busking, one choral festival in London, one weekend of ‘away’ performances (past trips have included Edinburgh Fringe and Stavanger, Norway), and a few community concerts, weddings, and other unique performances at events. 

For more information see our website: https://london.humanistchoir.org/

You can see and hear us on our YouTube channel.

Please email a CV outlining your experience and qualifications, and a short paragraph about yourself and what you would bring to chair@london.humanistchoir.org.  

Interviews and auditions for qualified candidates will take place in February. Please indicate your availability on Tuesday nights for audition and interview,

Remuneration for rehearsals and performances will be based on experience.