Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire youth choirs through rehearsals, concerts, and special events.
- Company: Opera North is a leading arts organisation in England, dedicated to making music accessible for all.
- Benefits: Enjoy a part-time role with flexible hours and the chance to work in a creative environment.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant community, shape young talent, and contribute to impactful performances.
- Qualifications: Experience as a choral director and working with young people is essential.
- Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged; DBS clearance required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Opera North is England's national opera company in the North and one of Europe's leading arts organisations. As part of its Learning & Engagement portfolio, the company runs three in-house youth choral ensembles: Opera North Children's Chorus, Opera North Young Voices, and Opera North Youth Chorus. An opportunity has now arisen for a Youth Chorus Master to lead the upper two ensembles.
Opera North Young Voices (young people aged 11 – 14) have performed at the 'Beach Bandstand' as part of the Aldeburgh Festival and with the Orchestra of Opera North as part of the Kirklees Concert Series at Dewsbury Town Hall. In January 2022 they performed Brundibár, accompanied by musicians from Royal Northern Sinfonia, at the Brundibar Festival, Sage Gateshead.
Recent performances of the Opera North Youth Chorus (aged 15 – 19) include Chabrier's The Runaway Royal, alongside the Opera North Youth Orchestra, in Leeds Grand Theatre (2024), Trial by Jury at The International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in Buxton (2023), and a new co-commission, with Garsington Opera, of Selfish Giant by John Barber (2022). The Youth Chorus have also devised several new works, working with established composers and librettists. In November 2017 the Youth Chorus joined young people from Den Jyske Opera for co-devised performances in Denmark as part of the Aarhus European City of Culture celebrations.
In September 2025 the Youth Chorus and Young Voices will join forces with the Opera North Youth Orchestra to open the 2025/26 Opera North Season with the UK premiere of the 'Hamburg' version of The Secret of the Black Spider.
Collaborating with Opera North colleagues, the Youth Chorus Master will direct the Opera North Youth Chorus and Young Voices at weekly rehearsals, residential courses, concerts, and special events; conducting performances where required and leading on the artistic programming to ensure high artistic standards and an annual programme of activity which integrates core skills with concerts and staged shows.
The successful candidate will have substantial experience of working professionally as a choral director and significant experience of working with young people. This post is subject to enhanced DBS clearance.
We create music and opera for everyone, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and sections of the community. As we work to address underrepresentation in our workforce, we are particularly keen to hear from applicants of the global majority and/or those who are disabled. We are committed to meeting any access requirements for the successful applicant.
Deadline for applications: 10:00 a.m, Thursday 31st July, 2025.
Youth Chorus Master employer: Opera North
Contact Detail:
Opera North Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Youth Chorus Master
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the performing arts sector, especially those involved with youth choirs or educational programmes. Attend local performances or workshops to meet potential colleagues and gain insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Opera North's current youth ensembles and their recent performances. Understanding their repertoire and artistic direction will help you demonstrate your alignment with their vision during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider volunteering or taking part in community music projects that focus on youth engagement. This experience can enhance your skills and show your commitment to working with young people in a choral setting.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences as a choral director, particularly with young voices. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led rehearsals, developed programmes, and engaged young singers.
We think you need these skills to ace Youth Chorus Master
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Youth Chorus Master. Familiarise yourself with the ensembles and their recent performances to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience as a choral director and any work you've done with young people. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire youth choirs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for music and education. Discuss why you want to work with Opera North and how your vision aligns with their mission to create music for everyone.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Opera North
✨Showcase Your Choral Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous experience as a choral director, especially with young people. Discuss specific ensembles you've worked with and any notable performances or projects that demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire youth.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Youth Engagement
Express your enthusiasm for working with young singers. Share examples of how you've successfully engaged and motivated young people in the past, whether through innovative rehearsals, creative programming, or community outreach.
✨Prepare for Artistic Programming Questions
Be ready to discuss your vision for the artistic programming of the Youth Chorus and Young Voices. Think about how you would integrate core skills with concerts and staged shows, and be prepared to share ideas for future projects or collaborations.
✨Understand Opera North's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Opera North's mission and values, particularly their commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these goals and support underrepresented communities within the youth ensembles.