We’re looking for an enthusiastic and inspiring Music Director to lead our ladies choir (SSA) from 1 January 2027. The Cantrelle Singers is a well-established choir of 25 singers based in central Portsmouth, founded approximately 50 years ago.

You will be responsible for planning and conducting weekly rehearsals, suggesting / choosing music to add to our repertoire and leading performances.

Rehearsals are held from 7.45-9.30pm on Thursday evenings during term-time (excluding half-term).

About Us

The choir was founded in 1975, with some current members having been in the choir for many years while others have joined more recently. Most are retired. There are no auditions for joining the choir, however the Music Director will make the final decision regarding any new membership following a voice check. We use sheet music with many of our choir members being able to read music. Practice tracks are recorded for each part during rehearsals, which are shared via WhatsApp to help with learning.

​We sing a range of secular music; short pieces of music which choir members enjoy including (but not limited to) pop, jazz and show tunes; along with some more traditional and/or religious pieces e.g. by John Rutter. The choir has a large collection of music and we are keen to keep adding new pieces into the repertoire. There is presently a budget of up to £500 per year for new music. We are accompanied by a pianist at all rehearsals and performances.

​We enjoy public performances and concerts, supporting charities and have often collaborated with other choirs and musical groups.

The choir has a committee of 10 members, including the Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. The committee presently meets 4-6 times per year, usually on a Monday evening. The Music Director usually attends (and the accompanist if available). Dates and times can be re-arranged to fit with other commitments.

We currently have an accompanist who is willing to stay on when a new Music Director is recruited.

Details of remuneration on application.

About You

We are seeking a Music Director who will be able to develop the choir further, with:

• Experience of working with singers of various musical abilities and able to employ a range of teaching and rehearsal techniques
• A willingness to introduce new music material, within budget, that will engage and challenge the choir
• Excellent and supportive leadership and communication

 Key Responsibilities

• The Music Director will play a central role in shaping the choir’s direction and ensuring a high standard to deliver effective but also enjoyable rehearsals and performances
• Work closely with the Choir Committee and Accompanist to ensure concert programming
• Provide musical leadership, developing the choir, sound and performance
• Advise the choir committee on repertoire, concert programming and opportunities for musical development
• Identify and encourage collaboration with other choirs and musicians
• Understand and respond to the needs of the choir and local community
• Help to raise the profile of the choir and support initiatives that encourage growth and increased membership
• Provide coaching and recognise individual talent

 Personal Attributes:

• A positive and approachable manner
• Sense of humour and enable enjoyable rehearsals
• Commitment to the choir’s performance quality
• Reliable and well organised, able to plan effectively around rehearsals, concerts and choir commitments
• Enthusiasm for bringing fresh ideas and broadening the experience of the choir

Recruitment process

Submit a CV and covering letter giving us information about your musical background, experience and training which you believe would make you a strong candidate for the position of Music Director. You are welcome to include links to videos or websites.

​​​Closing Date: Sunday 1st November 2026

Contact:  If you have questions please contact the Secretary, Helen via secretary@cantrelles.co.uk

 Interview Process: To plan and lead a 20-30 minute rehearsal, followed by a short interview.  This will take place on one of the choir rehearsal evenings in November.

​​Our website is www.cantrelles.co.uk and our Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/cantrellesingers/?locale=en_GB