At a Glance
- Tasks: Join Canterbury Cathedral Choir as an Alto Lay Clerk and perform at services and festivals.
- Company: Canterbury Cathedral, a historic World Heritage Site and centre of Anglican worship.
- Benefits: Regular singing lessons, professional development, and a vibrant musical community.
- Other info: Flexible attendance for external engagements and opportunities for growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a rich musical tradition and make a meaningful impact through your voice.
- Qualifications: Exceptional vocal ability, strong sight-reading skills, and professional music experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Canterbury Cathedral is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England and symbolic leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Located in Canterbury, Kent, it is one of the oldest Christian structures in England and forms part of a World Heritage Site.
This is an exciting opportunity for a professional musician to join Canterbury Cathedral Choir as an Alto Lay Clerk and to become part of the musical life of Canterbury Cathedral. Lay Clerks sing at Evensong on five or six days per week, and at Eucharist on Sunday mornings. They are also required to sing at major Christian festivals, including Christmas, Easter and Pentecost, and take part in broadcasts, recordings and concerts. Regular singing lessons are provided. A minimum monthly attendance rate of 85% is required, and additional absence for external professional musical engagements can be requested, with appropriate notice, and permitted at the discretion of the Director of Music.
What we’re looking for in an Alto Lay Clerk:
- Exceptional vocal ability and musicianship;
- Strong sight-reading ability;
- Experience as a professional musician.
To be considered for this role we will need your CV, a supporting statement and a complete application, in addition to a link to a YouTube video showing you singing a piece of your choice. For full details please see the application pack. Interviews to be held 1st July 2026.
If you wish to have an informal conversation about the role of Lay Clerk or to ask questions in advance of application, please contact the Director of Music, David Newsholme, by email: music@canterbury-cathedral.org.
As applications are received, interviews may take place prior to the advertised closing date. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We welcome applications from underrepresented groups. Canterbury Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. At this time, Canterbury Cathedral is unable to provide visa sponsorship. Applicants must already hold the right to work in the UK.
Alto Lay Clerk in Canterbury employer: Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral offers a unique and enriching environment for musicians, particularly as an Alto Lay Clerk. With a commitment to fostering musical talent through regular singing lessons and participation in significant Christian festivals, employees can expect a supportive work culture that values artistic growth and community engagement. Located in the historic city of Canterbury, this role not only provides a chance to contribute to a world-renowned choir but also to be part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an exceptional place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Alto Lay Clerk in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your vocal skills! When you send in your application, include that YouTube link of you singing. It’s your chance to shine and show off what you can do!
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just rely on your CV; your supporting statement is key! Use it to tell us about your passion for music and why you want to be part of the Canterbury Cathedral Choir. Make it personal!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your sight-reading skills. We want to see how well you can read music on the spot, so practice with different pieces beforehand!
✨Tip Number 4
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact David Newsholme for an informal chat about the role. It shows initiative and helps you get a better feel for what we’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace Alto Lay Clerk in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your CV Wisely:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your vocal abilities, musicianship, and any relevant experience. Tailor it to show how you fit the role of Alto Lay Clerk at Canterbury Cathedral.
Nail That Supporting Statement:This is your chance to shine! Use your supporting statement to express your passion for music and why you want to be part of the Canterbury Cathedral Choir. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Show Off Your Singing Skills:Don’t forget to include a link to your YouTube video! Choose a piece that showcases your vocal range and style. Make sure the audio and video quality are good – we want to hear you at your best!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s easy and ensures your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need in one place!
How to prepare for a job interview at Canterbury Cathedral
✨Know Your Repertoire
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the piece you'll be performing for your audition. Choose something that showcases your vocal ability and musicianship, and practice it until you're confident. This will not only impress the interviewers but also help you feel more at ease during your performance.
✨Brush Up on Sight-Reading
Since strong sight-reading ability is a must for this role, spend some time honing this skill before your interview. Practise reading new pieces of music quickly and accurately. You might even want to ask a friend or colleague to test you with unfamiliar scores to simulate the interview environment.
✨Understand the Role and Expectations
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of an Alto Lay Clerk at Canterbury Cathedral. Knowing the schedule, including Evensong and major Christian festivals, will show your commitment and enthusiasm for the role. It’s also a great way to demonstrate that you’re ready to integrate into their musical life.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare some insightful questions to ask the Director of Music. This could be about the choir's repertoire, the community involvement of the cathedral, or opportunities for professional development. It shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position and eager to contribute.
