We’re recruiting a Choir Director (maternity cover)
We’re recruiting a Choir Director (maternity cover)
Contract period: 4th January – 28th July 2027 (excluding half terms & Easter holidays) with a possibility to continue after July 2027
The contractor will be engaged on a freelance / self-employed basis.
Location: South Manchester
I Like Singing is looking for an exceptional, inspiring and dynamic Choir Leader to join us for an exciting maternity cover opportunity across our adult choirs. This is a chance to step into a thriving, joyful and musically ambitious choir community, lead large groups of committed singers, and work closely with a supportive creative team, all while focusing on what you do best: facilitating great music and connection.
You will be leading either 1 or 2 choirs.
You’ll be leading rehearsals and end-of-term concerts for two of our adults-only, no-audition modern pop choirs in Altrincham and Sale, each with around 70-80 singers. Our third choir, in Chorlton, may need a cover leader (Wednesday evenings), but this would be a rare occurrence.
About the choirs:
We sing innovative pop choir arrangements of songs and mash-ups ranging the decades (think Prince to Olivia Dean), focussing on improving group musicality through improvisation, rhythmic sense and groove. We aim to create a non-judgement space where people can explore their creativity with positivity and curiosity. The aim is to try new things without being scared of failing! Our rehearsals are great fun and there is always a lot of laughter in the room.
About the role:
– All admin, arrangements, resources and payments is managed by I Like Singing.
– All equipment is provided at the venues
– We have 39 rehearsals in each choir per year (117 in total), roughly following the school term.
– You will be leading either 1 or 2 choirs
– Alty Voices is Monday evenings and Sale Sings is Tuesday evenings (Chorlton Sings is Wednesday evenings)
Why work with us:
– Competitive rates for rehearsals and concerts, £150/1.5h rehearsal
– Work within a small, passionate, well-organised team in which you will feel valued
– Lead a passionate community of singers
– Lots of room for creative, musical and educational development
– Fantastic opportunities to perform – we have played for BBC, ITV and Channel 4
– Just turn up, set up and inspire (all arrangement/admin/equipment is sorted)!
Who we are looking for:
– Someone who loves choirs, pop music and working with people
– An inspiring individual who has heaps of energy and positivity
– Someone who can create inclusive, encouraging spaces where singers feel safe to try, fail and grow
– Good organisation, communication and timekeeping skills.
– Confident people skills, including holding a room, setting boundaries and navigating group dynamics
– Someone who strives to get the best possible sound and experience from the choir
– Knowledge of the voice and healthy use
– Ability to play piano or guitar and sing
It’s a bonus if you have:
– Experience directing choirs or leading groups of singers/musicians
– Strong piano/guitar skills
– Some knowledge of sound mixing/engineering (helpful, not essential)
– Bachelors/Master’s degree in Music or related field
– Vocal experience or qualifications in CVT, EVT and/or SLS.
– Familiarity with The Intelligent Choir Method
Practical details & timeline
- Freelance / self-employed role
- Application deadline: Friday 16th October 2026
Recruitment process
- Online interviews: 19th-23rd October
- Rehearsal observation: We ask all shortlisted candidates to attend one choir rehearsal before their audition trial. This can happen anytime between now and 21st October. Just message Jenni (jenni@ilikesinging.com – Community & Events Coordinator ), and she’ll arrange a session for you to observe.
- Audition trial dates: Mon 2nd, 9th, 23rd November & Tues 3rd, 10th November
Dates of the cover
- Maternity cover period: 4th January – 28th July 2027 (with a possibility to continue after July 2027)
Training & handover
Optional training and handover: 7th – 16th December 2026