Volunteer Classical Music Director

Position: Volunteer

Location: Hybrid (St Stephen's Twickenham & Virtual)

Reports to: Worship Pastor

Time Commitment: Necessary planning meetings with the Worship Pastor and the preparation/collation/administration of music rehearsals for one Easter and one Christmas event

Overview:

St Stephen's Twickenham is seeking a passionate and skilled Volunteer Classical Music Director to lead and develop our church’s orchestra and choir. This role plays a crucial part in shaping the worship experience specifically for Christmas and Easter services, with a vision to incorporate classical music more regularly into our weekly gatherings. The director will collaborate closely with the Worship Pastor, who will provide administrative and communications support and leadership assistance, allowing the Classical Director to focus on planning, arranging, and directing the orchestra and choir.

Responsibilities:

• Recruit, mentor, and train choir and orchestra members, fostering a Christ-centred, supportive, and team-oriented environment.

• Lead and oversee the church orchestra and choir.

• Plan, coordinate, and direct multiple rehearsals for both ensembles in partnership with the Worship Pastor.

• Work closely with the worship pastor, musicians, and vocalists to integrate orchestral and choral elements into church services.

• Source and organise appropriate sheet music for all orchestral instruments to support worship selections.

• Arrange, annotate, and adapt music to accommodate the skills and abilities of volunteer musicians.

• Conduct and arrange orchestral and choral performances for Easter and Christmas services alongside the Worship Pastor.

• Provide clear direction and leadership during rehearsals and live performances.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in participating in/directing a choir and orchestra in a church or secular setting.

• Strong ability to read, interpret, annotate, and arrange SATB and orchestral music.

• Proficiency in conducting and coaching both vocalists and instrumentalists.

• Excellent understanding of music theory and orchestration.

• Effective leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and coordinate a diverse team of musicians.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work with musicians of varying skill levels, fostering growth and confidence.

• Ability to work as part of a larger team including Clergy, services team, pastors, etc.

• Alignment with the church’s mission, vision, and doctrinal beliefs.

• Completion of required safeguarding checks and training modules once recruited, including Basic Awareness & Foundations Training, sufficient references, and DBS checks.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in orchestration and arranging music for ensembles.

• Familiarity with both contemporary and traditional worship styles.

• Ability to play piano or an orchestral instrument is a plus.

Benefits:

• A unique opportunity to serve and make a meaningful impact in the church community by enriching the worship experience through classical music.

• A chance to develop leadership and musical skills while deepening your faith.

• Being part of a supportive and worship-focused ministry team.

How to Apply:

If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about classical worship music and our church community, we

would love to hear from you! Please contact the Worship Pastor, Sam, at samplank@st-stephens.org.uk with a

cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, along with any supporting recordings and references.