Interim Assistant Director of Music (Full time) - Deadline Midday on Tuesday 17th March 2026
/Interim Assistant Director of Music & Sub Organist
We are looking for an outstanding musician to play a key role in the music and liturgy department.
Hours: The role is full time with an average of 40 hours per week in Cathedral Choir term time (this includes Christmas and Easter). During any Choir holiday period, when the post holder is not on annual leave, they will be expected to work flexibly as required.
Pay: The salary is £30,000. We do not offer accommodation with this post.
Deadline: 12.00pm (midday) on Tuesday 17th March 2026
About the role
We are looking for an outstanding musician to play a key role in the liturgy and music department.
The post-holder will be the primary accompanist to the Cathedral Choir for most services and events and will contribute to the worship and mission of Rochester Cathedral by promoting and developing musical excellence. They will support the interim Director of Music (DOM) in rehearsing and conducting, playing the organ, and accompanying, and contributing to the work of the music and liturgy department. Depending on experience, they may also be asked to run the Youth Choir programme, under the supervision of the interim DOM.
Music – and in particular the Cathedral choral tradition – is an integral part of the worship and mission of Rochester Cathedral. The Chapter are committed to:
a. promoting the Cathedral as a centre for excellence in liturgy and music.
b. ensuring that the pattern of liturgy and music is treasured, developed and promoted; and
c. securing a sustainable future for the Cathedral’s music.
(from Chapter Development Plan 2024-2026).
An Enhanced with Barred List(s) DBS check is required for this post.
If you would like to have an informal discussion about the post, please email Robbie Carroll - Robbie.Carroll@rochestercathedral.org
How to Apply
Applications must be made using our application form. It should be accompanied by a short letter outlining your suitability for the role. Please also complete the Confidential Declaration Form.
Download the Confidential Declaration
Download the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form
Completed applications should be returned, by email to: recruitment@rochestercathedral.org stating ‘Interim Assistant Director of Music Application’ in the subject box.
Interview and Audition dates:
We will be holding a first round of interviews over Zoom on Friday 20th March 2026. We will then hold a second round of interviews/auditions on Thursday 26th March 2026. Please ensure that you can be available on both dates. The cost of overnight accommodation on Wednesday 25th March of up to £65 will be provided for shortlisted candidates who do not live within commuting distance.
The interview/audition process will involve an interview, an organ-playing audition, and likely also include a rehearsal with the Cathedral Choir. Further details of the playing requirements will be made available to shortlisted candidates, and the audition will involve accompanying the choir singing the Magnificat from the Evening Service in B minor by Herbert Howells.
If you would like us to send a copy of the accompaniment, please email Robbie.Carroll@rochestercathedral.org
Please email the completed application form by 12pm (midday) on Tuesday 17th March 2026
Rochester Cathedral is committed to Safer Recruiting and working practices in line with the Church of England Safer Recruitment and People Management Guidance document 2021.
