Goring and Streatley Concert Band
Musical Director 2025 Application
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Thank you for your interest in the position of Musical Director for our band. Please see below:
1. Information about the band
2. The role and key responsibilities
3. The selection criteria
4. How to apply
5. The selection process
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1. About the Band
The Goring and Streatley Concert Band is a community band, open to players of all ages and abilities. We currently have about 35 members. The band was originally founded before the First World War but when the Second World War became imminent it was impossible to carry on. The band was reformed in 1977 for the Queen's Silver Jubilee and has continued, without interruption, since then. We rehearse in Goring every Monday night except for bank holidays. Players are generally Grade 4 and above on their instruments and we perform music between band grades 2-3, sometimes 4.
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We also have a Starter Band (which has its own MD) made up of children and adults; as well as catering for those not yet ready to play in the concert band, the Starter Band provides an opportunity for concert band players to play their second or third-choice instrument. We currently give two self-promoted formal concerts each year. The band also plays at between five and six less formal outdoor summer engagements (fetes and regattas) and Christmas events. We are also invited to take part in the biennial Goring & Streatley Arts Festival and other community events such as jubilees. The band's income from membership subscriptions and fees from engagements is now steady after recovering from the effects of the Covid pandemic.
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2. Role and Responsibilities of the Musical Director
Repertoire
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Set overall musical direction, in agreement with committee (regularly reviewed).
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Propose concert programmes and initiatives in agreement with the committee, usually at least one term in advance.
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Co-ordinate with the Librarian to ensure the provision of music well in advance.
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The band’s engagements secretary deals with the day-to-day organisation of the events we play at. However, the Director of Music may need to liaise with organisers of some of the larger events in which we take part (e.g. the biennial Goring & Streatley Arts Festival).
Conducting Rehearsals
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Plan and conduct weekly rehearsals for the main band (Mondays, 8pm – 10pm).
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Direct the band in a clear and effective manner to optimise individual and ensemble quality and enjoyment.
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Assist with providing deputy conductors as necessary by agreement with the committee.
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Conduct all concerts & other engagements and introduce pieces to the audience as appropriate to the event.
Band Management
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Assist with recruiting and liaising with new players interested in joining the Band and actively help with the development of the Band.
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Work with the committee to identify and plan forward events.
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Determine what musical personnel and deputies are required for each performance.
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Be an ex-officio member of the committee and attend meetings as appropriate.
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Attend the AGM and give a report on the previous year’s activity, progress and any issues arising.
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3. Selection Criteria
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Strong musicianship skills and qualifications
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Ability to communicate effectively to players of all abilities
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Relevant experience of leading an amateur/mixed ability concert band (or similar)
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Evidence of drive, ideas and enthusiasm
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Good people skills
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Ability to present a balanced programme of music appropriate to the type of performance
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4. How to Apply
Use the form at the end of this page to upload your CV. This should include:
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Name, address, and contact details (email, phone);
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Relevant experience, demonstrating how you meet the criteria as listed above;
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Why you are interested in this position and, if relevant, any links to/associations you have with South Oxfordshire/Berkshire.
You may also, if you wish, upload a covering letter describing your experience of working with amateur mixed ability groups, what you see the see as the main issues, and how you would approach repertoire choices for the band. If you have any queries, or would like an informal chat with one of the committee prior to submitting a CV, please use the message space on the form below and we will be in touch.
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5. The Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by the committee and shortlisted candidates invited to audition at a rehearsal in mid/late September. This will be one hour long, and each candidate will be asked to run three pieces – one known to the band, one (from a list of four or five) known to the band but not recently rehearsed and one (again from a short list of four or five) with which the band is not familiar.
