Job Title:Chorus of Opera North Choristers
Chorus of Opera North
Music Director: Richard Farnes
Job Title:Chorus of Opera North Choristers
Status:Full-time chorister
Reports to:Chorus Master (for artistic direction)
Chorus Manager (for contracts, employment issues and scheduling)
Job Purpose
A Chorister is a member of the Chorus of Opera North, which has as its main function the production and creation of opera, music theatre and concerts. All members of Opera North are committed to producing high-quality work that informs, excites, challenges and entertains.
The versatile Chorus of Opera North is one of the Company’s core artistic ensembles and is renowned for the consistent excellence of its work:
“…choral singing that pins you to the back of your seat…” The Sunday Times
The job involves a commitment to the artistic integrity of the chorus, as well as offering personal and professional development through the opportunity for playing and covering solo roles, and other forms of work such as project work with Opera North Education and Training.
The Chorus of Opera North House Agreement covers the terms and conditions applicable to the work.
The job is based in Leeds, with a range of touring venues most regularly including Manchester, Newcastle and Nottingham.
Management responsibility
None.
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Singing and performing as chorus members for opera and concert performances and rehearsals and the Chorus of Opera North in Leeds and elsewhere. This includes acting, singing, dancing and movement of minor scenery/props and furniture as a chorister.
Undertaking chorus roles/covers and other principal roles. - Preparing/learning music as necessary and appropriate
- Maintaining voices to an optimum professional standard.
- Singing fluently in the English, French, German and Italian languages.
- Participating in recordings and relays of rehearsals and/or performances.
- Wearing costumes, wigs and make-up when and as directed at stage rehearsals and performances and to wear rehearsal/practice costumes as required at production rehearsals.
- Undertaking wardrobe and wig calls as required.
- Participating in appraisals and re-auditions.
- Touring in the UK and abroad as required (subject to the terms and conditions of the House Agreement.)
- Complying with all Opera North HR policies and procedures.
Person Specification
- High standard of vocal ability.
- Substantial professional performing experience, in a chorus and solo capacity.
- A good working knowledge of the Opera repertoire.
- An understanding of the working practices of a major theatre.
- The ability to pick up instruction quickly.
- Able to maintain good working relationships at all levels.
- Ability to respond positively to feedback and direction.
- Communication and interpersonal skills.
- Linguistic ability (English, French, German, Italian.)
- Flexibility to attend scheduled rehearsals, including weekends as required.
- The highest standards of attendance, reliability and professionalism.
Terms and Conditions
Salary Range: £24,358 - £29,096 (depending on experience) per annum
Hours of Working:As per the Chorus schedule
Normal place of work:Opera North, Leeds and with the Company on tour
Holiday entitlement:As per the Chorus House Agreement
Pension:As per the Chorus House Agreement and conforming to automatic enrolment pension legislation