At a Glance
- Tasks: Sing in a prestigious choir, perform internationally, and enrich the choral tradition.
- Company: Jesus College Choir, known for its beautiful chapel and world-class performances.
- Benefits: Free singing lessons, meal allowance, travel expenses covered for engagements.
- Other info: Fixed term contract for 10 months, compatible with postgraduate studies or part-time roles.
- Why this job: Join a talented team and showcase your voice in stunning venues worldwide.
- Qualifications: Vocal quality at diploma level, confident sight-reader, extensive choral repertoire knowledge.
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 parts) 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, travel expenses covered for engagements, and a supportive environment under the guidance of esteemed musical directors, this role not only enhances vocal skills but also fosters personal and professional growth through regular performances and international tours.
