We are looking for a new accompanist from September
Established in 2021 we are a community choir based in the village of Cawston, Norfolk. We are open to all regardless of ability or background. Our aim is to encourage an enjoyment of singing, to promote wellbeing both physical and emotional whilst at the same time raising our aspirations and encouraging a culture of improvement.
We meet each Tuesday in school term-time from 7pm to 8.30pm to sing together in St Agnes Church, Cawston. At present we have two major events each year at Christmas and summer as well as other less formal events centred around our village throughout the year.
We sing music across a range of styles/genres including classical, folk, musical
theatre, pop and rock. We mainly sing in four-part harmony (SATB).
Our Accompanist plays a vital role in supporting both the Musical Director (MD) and the singers, providing musical foundation, energy, and artistic partnership during rehearsals and performances. This role often goes beyond just playing notes, acting as a support to the MD helping singers with pitch, tempo, and dynamics.
Responsibilities
Under the direction of the MD our Accompanist will provide a professional level of piano accompaniment for all weekly rehearsals and some performances (up to three a year). In particular our accompanist will:
- Accompany the full choir at all rehearsals.
- Confidently and professionally lead sectional rehearsals when required, directing from the piano.
- Play piano parts in concerts when the need arises.
Professional and Personal Skills
The Accompanist will meet the following criteria:
- Be a skilled pianist and a sensitive accompanist.
- Have strong sight-reading and score-reading abilities, as well as being fully prepared in advance for every rehearsal and performance.
- Be able to work as part of a team as well as take the initiative when appropriate.
- Be approachable, with good interpersonal skills and a keenness to interact with members of Cawston Community Choir (CCC).
- Be able to work well and collaboratively with the Music Director to facilitate rehearsals and performances and to support singers to feel confident and achieve their best.
Conditions
- We issue a contract to our Accompanist which runs from 1 September to the 31 August (we work an academic year) on a self-employed basis. The contract runs for 38 weeks in each academic year including up to three performances.
- The contract will be made available at the point of applying for the role detailing all the conditions within it.
- Payment is by bank transfer, following the receipt of an invoice.
- The appointment is subject to confirmation following a one term probationary period.
- The contract may be ended by CCC or the Accompanist by giving four weeks notice.
If you wish to apply for the role, please send a CV and covering letter stating any relevant experience to secretary@cawstonchoir.org.uk Potential Accompanists will be invited to visit a rehearsal, attend an interview, provide two references and accompany a rehearsal before their appointment is confirmed. Please also visit our website for more information about our choir. Closing date for applications is 10 July 2026.
