Choral Director – The Harlequin Singers of Hamilton

Choirs Ontario; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A community choir in Ontario seeks a musical director for the 2025-2026 season. The ideal candidate should have a background in choral conducting, excellent vocal techniques, and a passion for Broadway. Responsibilities include leading rehearsals, directing concerts, and engaging with the community. Salary is negotiable with a one-year term and the possibility of renewal. Apply by August 8th with a resume and cover letter to be considered.

Qualifications

• Preferred bachelor of music with focus on choral conducting and/or voice.
• Proficient vocal and conducting techniques.
• Able to commit to rehearsals and concert dates.
• Preferred teaching experience.
• Preferred experience with all voices ranges.

Responsibilities

• Lead weekly evening rehearsals in Burlington.
• Direct up to 4 show concerts and interim charitable appearances per annum.
• Work collaboratively with the elected board of directors and accompanist.
• Build repertoire for Christmas and Spring Season.
• Present choir to the greater community.
• Audition new members and re-audition existing members.

Job description

The Harlequin Singers have been performing Broadway music in and around Hamilton, Ontario since 1967. Our members range in age from 25-75+. We are looking for a musical director who is interested in professional collaboration with our talented accompanist, passionate about Broadway, and excited about leading a group of about 30 amateur singers (SATB) who are keen to learn up-to-date and challenging arrangements of Broadway music as well as holding on to our roots. We are accustomed to performing off-book. If you are fun, good-natured, willing to put us to work, and interested in adding your own ‘flair’ to an enthusiastic group of choristers, then The Harlequin Singers is the choir for you.

DESCRIPTION – RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead weekly evening rehearsals in Burlington, Ontario (current scheduled time is Thursdays from 7PM to 9:30PM)
• Direct up to 4 show concerts and some interim charitable appearances per annum
• Work collaboratively with the elected board of directors, accompanist, business manager and various choir committees
• Build repertoire for Christmas and Spring Season
• Present choir to the greater community in a positive manner
• Audition new members and re-audition existing members as appropriate

QUALIFICATIONS

• Preferred bachelor of music with focus on choral conducting and/or voice
• Proficient vocal and conducting techniques
• Able to commit to rehearsals and concert dates
• Preferred teaching experience
• Preferred experience with all voices ranges

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Effective Date: 2025-2026 season (September through June)
Rate: Salary negotiable
Term: One Year, with possibility of renewal

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Submit résumé with relevant experience and cover letter including thoughts on how to improve and grow a choir to [e-mail]. All applications must be received by Friday, August 8th @ 5PM to be considered. Finalists for the position will be interviewed by the hiring committee and be asked to direct a 30-minute rehearsal with the choir. All candidates will be notified once auditions are complete.