At a Glance
- Tasks: Sing in a prestigious choir, perform internationally, and participate in regular services and concerts.
- Company: Join the renowned Jesus College Choir in a beautiful chapel setting.
- Benefits: Receive free singing lessons, meal allowances, and travel expenses covered for engagements.
- Other info: Perfect for postgraduates seeking a unique musical experience alongside studies.
- Why this job: Enhance your vocal skills while making music in a supportive and enriching environment.
- Qualifications: Must have strong vocal technique, sight-reading skills, and knowledge of choral repertoire.
Jesus College Choir is looking to recruit a tenor Lay Clerk for the 2026-2027 academic year to support and enrich the choral tradition in the beautiful Jesus College Chapel. In addition to regular services in the Chapel, the choir regularly tours internationally and performs with world-class ensembles such as the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the Britten Sinfonia in concert.
The post holder would be required to sing for all rehearsals, services, concerts and tours (please refer to the full schedule in the candidate information pack) and also be available during some vacation periods when touring and recording is usually scheduled. The Lay Clerk will sing with both the Chapel Choir (boy choristers + ATB) and the College Choir (Sopranos + ATB) for the four regular services per week, under the direction of Benjamin Sheen (Director of Music).
The post holder would receive all the benefits of a choral scholarship at Jesus College, including free singing lessons (up to 10 a year) with one of the College’s singing teachers and a termly allowance to spend on meals in Hall or refreshments in the onsite Roost Café. For engagements outside of the College, all travel expenses would be covered and meals or a per diem provided for the post holder. This position would be a fixed term contract for 10 months, commencing in September 2026.
The post holder must have appropriate vocal quality and technique, alongside practical vocal skills to diploma level or equivalent. The post holder should be a confident sight-reader and have the ability to sing a voice part alone where required. The post holder should also have an extensive knowledge of the choral repertoire and be sympathetic to the ethos and aims of the Chapel.
Please note that this position is not open to undergraduates, and that accommodation is not provided as part of the post. This position is compatible with many postgraduate courses or other part time roles. You must be eligible to work in the United Kingdom. This appointment will be made subject to a DBS check.
For full particulars and details of how to apply, please refer to the Candidate Information Pack which is available to download. Please note: This vacancy may close earlier than the advertised date once a suitable candidate is found.
Location: £5,000 per annum (paid in monthly instalments over the duration of the contract)
Application Deadline: Monday, 31st August 2026
Vacancy type: Contract
How to apply: Please refer to the Candidate Information Pack on how to apply.
Lay Clerkship (Tenor voice part) in Cambridge employer: Jesus College Cambridge
Jesus College Choir offers a unique opportunity for tenor Lay Clerks to immerse themselves in a rich choral tradition within the stunning setting of Jesus College Chapel. With benefits such as free singing lessons, a termly allowance for meals, and coverage of travel expenses for engagements, the supportive work culture fosters both artistic growth and professional development. This role not only allows for collaboration with world-class ensembles but also provides a meaningful experience that aligns with the ethos of the Chapel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking rewarding employment in the arts.
