Young Conductors Mentoring Scheme Sept '26 to July '27

The mentoring scheme will cover one programme season with CEFC - starting in September 2026 and finishing in July 2027.

Applications are invited from talented and committed musicians, aged between 18 and 35, from any background and with any level of training, who want to make conducting their career, especially those with an interest in conducting symphonic choirs.

The two successful applicants will have twice monthly mentoring sessions with the Crouch End Festival Chorus Music Director, David Temple, and have the opportunity to attend choir rehearsals and work with the choir management and accompanist.

Understanding the work of a choral music director, including:

Studying and preparing music before a rehearsal period begins
Scheduling, planning and preparing for rehearsals
Planning musical programmes, both for individual concerts and for seasons
Working with orchestras, soloists and accompanists

Understanding the governance and management of a successful symphonic chorus, including:

A music organisation's structure and roles
How to work with volunteers in a charitable organisation
Budget planning and strategy development

Developing practical conducting skills, by:

Study of the music at mentoring sessions with the music director, and individually
Attending rehearsals and occasionally, where appropriate, taking over conducting for a section of a rehearsal
Receiving performance feedback and reflecting constructively on that feedback

Application form

Eligible candidates should provide the following information via the application form by 23:59 on Tuesday the 7 April 2026

Music CV
Links to two video clips supporting showcasing your conducting experience*
- a video of the candidate conducting a performance
- a video of the candidate rehearsing a choral and/or orchestral ensemble

*Videos should be filmed from in front of the candidate, showcasing your communication with the musicians you are conducting