Graduate Organist

Description

Stamford School is offering a fantastic opportunity for an organist who will be a graduate in September 2026. This residential role, which is for one year, is excellent preparation for an organist’s next steps either within church music, within education, or indeed both.

The precise nature of the successful candidate’s duties will be dependent on their individual skills, competencies and confidence, but the primary role is to support the delivery of Stamford School’s Towards 2030 Singing Strategy and, in particular, the new chorister programme which commenced in January 2026. This will involve leading and accompanying rehearsals, taking small-group and 1:1 vocal coaching sessions, and supporting the Director of Music both administratively and musically in preparing for both liturgical performances and concerts. The organist will play for services, predominantly choral evensong, whether sung by the Choristers or by the Chapel Choir. The organist may also be invited to lead year group singing.

Ideally the graduate organist would also be a competent pianist able to accompany pupils in concerts, assemblies and graded music examinations. For a graduate seeking to explore classroom teaching further, the opportunity exists to support and, at the appropriate time, lead lessons at various key stages. The school presently employs the services of an organist, Dr Benedict Todd, who is also the Director of Music at All SaintsStamford, the town’s principal parish church. The opportunity may arise for the school organist to undertake further, separately remunerated playing work at the church.

The East Midlands, with a number of high-profile parish church choirs as well as cathedrals in Lincoln, Peterborough and Leicester, and the collegiate institutions in Cambridge all within an hour’s travel, is an excellent location for an organist to develop their network. The graduate organist will be at liberty to undertake additional freelance work where this does not unduly conflict with their school responsibilities.

Essential Criteria

• Hold a relevant degree or suitable music qualification; whilst an FRCO is not essential, this level of playing is desirable and ARCO level is the minimum standard required for the role.
• Appropriate keyboard and accompaniment skills, including sight reading to a good standard, are essential for the role.
• Have relevant experience in music, both as an organist and in choral music whether as a singer or director.
• Have experience and/or interest in working with young people and to pursue a career as an organist and/or teacher.
• Be empathetic and have an understanding and be able to recognise the needs of children in a boarding environment.
• Possess good communication skills, verbally and in writing.
• Be able to support students pastorally and role model appropriate behaviours.
• Be willing to contribute to extra-curricular music performances and recitals.
• Be able to communicate well with pupils from various age ranges.
• Demonstrate empathy with the aims and ethos of the School.
• Show an adaptable and flexible approach to work.
• Undergo satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
• Understand the school’s child protection and safeguarding requirements.

Desirable Criteria

• Have personal experience of a boarding or residential environment.
• Demonstrate an affinity with the school’s Church of England traditions.

Application Details

Closing date for applications is the 28th January 2026.

Stamford Schools are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Job Types

• Full-time
• Contract

Pay

£15,594.00 - £18,132.00 per year

Benefits

• Canteen
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted or free food
• Free parking
• On-site gym

Work Location

In person