Choral Scholarships
Sixth Form Choral Scholarships – 2012-13
Wymondham Abbey wishes to appoint four sixth form or gap year Choral Scholars for the academic year 2012-13 starting in October. Ideally one scholar per part (SATB) will be appointed and the scholarships are open to both female and male candidates. Countertenors are also welcome to apply.
Music at Wymondham Abbey
Music plays an integral role in worship at Wymondham Abbey. The Abbey has a capable and enthusiastic SATB choir that covers a wide variety of musical styles from the Renaissance to the present day. In addition to providing music for Abbey services the choir makes a significant contribution to the annual summer Wymondham Music Festival.
The choir currently sings at the main 10.30am Sung Eucharist on Sundays where a different communion motet and choral mass setting is performed each week. Herbert Howells - Collegium Regale has recently been added to the repertoire. Eucharist is preceded by a short rehearsal starting at 10.00am. Full choral evensong currently occurs only on the 1st Sunday of each month, but it is intended that an additional choral evensong on the 3rd Sunday of the month will be reinstated in the very near future. Choral Evensong is an opportunity to explore a wealth of Canticles and Anthems accompanied by the magnificent three manual James Davis Organ. The rehearsal for evensong is at 5.45pm on Sundays. The main choir practice each week is on Fridays between 7.00pm and 8.30pm.
The Scholarship
The Choral Scholars will help to enhance and support the Abbey choir, as well as having the opportunity to expand their knowledge of repertoire and technique. Under the direction of the Director of Music, Rob Goodrich each Choral Scholar is expected to be present at all rehearsals and services during state school term time, as well as major Feast Days (Ascension Day, All Souls’ Day etc.), the Carol Service on the last Sunday evening before Christmas, Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and Eucharist on Christmas Day morning.
Choral Scholars are expected to sing during Holy Week consisting of services on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Day. The choir is on holiday during August, although Scholars may like to sign up to sing at the number of weddings which take place during August and offer additional fees. The Choral Scholars will have the opportunity to perform as soloists should they wish to. Any absences must be approved by the Director of Music.
Person Specification
This position is open to sixth form or gap year students aged 16-19 and will provide an excellent foundation and training for those who are looking to achieve university or cathedral choral scholarships.
Applicants should have experience of choral and/or solo singing and have sound sight reading ability. Previous experience of church music is highly desirable but not essential. Good self-management and time keeping is also necessary. Above all, a passion for good music making and choral singing is crucial.
Honorarium and Fees
The honorarium for each Choral Scholar is £450 per annum. Weddings requiring a choir present will attract a fee of £10.
Application and Audition
To apply, candidates are asked to submit a CV along with a short letter of application by email (preferably) or post to the Director of Music, Rob Goodrich. Informal enquiries and visits to the Abbey are most welcome. The deadline for applications is Friday 21st September.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to audition and will be asked to:
• Sing 2 short works of their choice that demonstrates their vocal ability and technique.
• Sight read a short piece.
• Sing one or two verses from a well known hymn chosen by the panel but available to candidates before the audition.
Some aural tests may also be required at the discretion of the panel. A short interview will take place after the audition.
Email: robwgoodrich@gmail.com Telephone: 07870 121465
Address: 8 Sir Thomas Beevor Close
Wymondham
Norfolk
NR18 0RG