Accompanist & Band Leader

newchoir, Toronto’s original rock choir, is looking for an accompanist with a strong interest in playing/accompanying Rock and Pop music. Our repertoire consists of mostly original arrangements of popular music from the last 60 years. From September to May, newchoir rehearses weekly from 7:30 and 9:30 near Avenue and Bloor with occasional Sunday afternoon practices and sectional rehearsals, performing two-to-three concerts each year with various band formats joining the Accompanist/Band Leader. Our membership consists of over 100+ voices from all walks of life with a range of musical abilities.

Responsibilities:

• Accompany the choir under the leadership of the Artistic Director during weekly rehearsals work collaboratively with the Artistic Director, staff and board of directors throughout each choir year.
• Retain and work with band musicians in collaboration with Artistic Director to rehearse and perform two-to-three concerts with the choir per year, plus the occasional hired performance
• Work with the Artistic Director or independently to lead sectional rehearsals (scheduled each season based on availability)
• Participate in at least one newchoir fundraising effort each season
• Ideally possess up-to-date keyboard and necessary equipment for use in performances

Qualifications:  The Accompanist/Band Leader must be well versed in Rock and Pop music, play the styles proficiently at the piano and easily read open scores.

In addition:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Music and/or Music Education OR equivalent.
• Work-related experience possess strong interpersonal skills, good humour and patience
• Ideally have experience working with a choirs and/or vocal groups
• Ideally have experience working with, playing in and/or leading bands or groups of musicians
• Have scheduling flexibility to play for the occasional hired performance
• Have a network of musicians for consideration when planning concerts

Salary: newchoir offers a competitive compensation package to be discussed upon receiving an interview.

If you are interested, please send your resume and three references to:

Caroline Suri, newchoir Executive Director
carolinesuri@rogers.com

Questions are more than welcome!

Job Location: Church of the Redeemer 161 Bloor St West (Monday evenings)