CHOIR CONDUCTORS - MELBOURNE

Job Title: Choir Conductor | Hawthorn - Melbourne

Short Summary: 2027 conducting opportunity! We are seeking a passionate choral conductor for our women's choir based in Hawthorn. Focus on music & community impact.

About the Role

Hummingsong is excited to offer an opportunity for a new passionate and experienced conductor to join our team and lead our dynamic and highly motivated community women's choir in Hawthorn called "Louella".

Reporting to the Artistic Director, Anna Humberstone, you will be a pivotal leader responsible for inspiring and guiding our Hawthorn choir that rehearses during school term time on Wednesday evenings. This role is perfect for a musical professional who wants to focus on artistic excellence and community building, while the Hummingsong Office manages all membership, venue administration, and concert programming.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a conductor who meets all the criteria but this isn’t the right time for you to take on the role, or you are located further afield than Hawthorn, please still get in touch.

We are always interested in connecting with experienced conductors who may be available for sick leave cover or other opportunities. We are also considering starting a third choir in Melbourne, with the location yet to be decided, so there may be further opportunities in the future.

Why Join Hummingsong?

• Focus on the Music: We handle the admin. You get to focus on your artistic and community-building role.

• Competitive Pay: We offer an attractive rehearsal rate plus superannuation, reflecting your professional status and commitment.

• Resources & Support: Access an extensive online library of music and learning tracks, plus a dedicated volunteer support structure within each choir to help with local logistics.

• Professional Network: Connect with music colleagues to bounce ideas off and feel part of a supportive team.

• Strong Social Impact: Be part of an organisation renowned for its purpose. Beyond the music, we actively support women and children escaping domestic violence through our fundraising and community partnerships.

• PLEASE NOTE: 2027 marks 15 years of Hummingsong Choirs and to celebrate this incredible milestone, our Melbourne choirs will participate in a special collaborative performance at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall on Sunday 26 September 2027.

Key Responsibilities

Choral Direction & Rehearsals

• Plan, prepare, and lead weekly rehearsals to achieve a high level of musical standards.

• Conduct warm-ups, vocal training, and musical instruction suitable for singers of all levels in a non-auditioned environment.

• Ensure timely learning and polished performance of repertoire for concerts and events.

• Liaise with the conductor of our other Melbourne choir in St Kilda to coordinate joint rehearsals and collaborative performances.

Community Engagement

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and joyous atmosphere that aligns with our commitment to women's wellbeing.

• Ensure a welcoming experience for new members, playing a key role in retention.

• Act as the primary professional link between choir members and the Hummingsong Office.

Schedule & Location

Start Date: Term 1, commencing Wednesday January 27th, 2027

Hours: 7:00 pm arrival for a 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm rehearsal.

Location: Christ Church Hawthorn

About You

To be successful, you must have a genuine alignment with the Hummingsong mission.

Candidates must possess Australian work rights to be eligible for this position.

Essential Criteria:

• Qualifications: Music, Conducting, or Music Education qualification (or equivalent professional experience).

• Experience: Proven experience conducting large vocal ensembles or choirs.

• Technical Skills: Strong understanding of vocal pedagogy and ability to teach healthy technique to varying abilities.

• Leadership: Exceptional communication, empathy, and people-management skills to inspire volunteers and members.

Desirable:

• Piano skills for assisting with teaching & rehearsing.

• Experience with community or non-auditioned arts organisations.

How to Apply

Please submit your application via email to ••••@hummingsongchoirs.com

Your application must include:

1. A CV outlining your experience and conducting history.

2. A Cover Letter addressing the Essential Criteria and articulating why you are drawn to the community and social impact focus of Hummingsong.

3. Video Submission (Highly Recommended): Links to recent videos of you conducting a choir (aim for two contrasting pieces).

For more information, visit www.hummingsong.com.au.

Suitable candidates will be short listed for an interview.