Accompanist in Residence

Brighton College is seeking to appoint an Accompanist in Residence, to start in September 2023

The Department

As one of the foremost school music departments in the UK, Brighton has a strong musical tradition. The department consists of three Academic music teachers, four Heads of Instrumental Sections, and two administrators and a large number of visiting music teachers.

Housed in our outstanding purpose-built music school which was completed in 2015, the facilities include a Recital and Rehearsal Hall, a percussion room, individual teaching and practice rooms and a recording suite. In the Gilbert Scott Chapel, there is a fine 3-manual Bishop Pipe Organ and the department also regularly uses other parts of the campus for performance or rehearsal, such as the Great Hall.

Academically, music is taught throughout Years 7, 8 and 9. There are currently 40 pupils taking the subject at GCSE, and 11 at A-Level and there are aspirations to grow this further. Results in recent years have been excellent, with 100% A*-A at GCSE, 100% A*-A at A-Level.

Role Specification

We are looking for a graduate pianist to join our thriving music department. The accompanist is central to the continued development of music at Brighton College: there is a continuous recital programme throughout the year and over 600 instrumental lessons every week, as well as a busy schedule of ABRSM and Trinity exams, competitions, a full chamber music programme, Symphony Orchestra, Concert Band and Swing Band. The role will also include the exciting prospect of supporting and accompanying for next terms musical. You will accompany and support solo musicians and the team of 45 visiting music teachers in preparing for performances but, also, on a more informal basis as part of the day-today music-making that fills the department throughout the week. The role will involve working with ambitious pupils working towards Conservatoire or University entrance alongside those at the very start of their musical journeys, helping to ensure that each individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

There is considerable potential for further involvement in the wider musical life of the College: through further exploring options for piano ensemble music and pupil collaborations, supporting the academic curriculum (preparation for the performance requirements of public exams), the role will also include the teaching of theory and aural, and coaching of ensembles. Likewise, there are plenty of opportunities for the Accompanist in Residence to shape their role, through bringing new ideas to the department or developing their own areas of interest – whether that is in choral music, contemporary music, composition, or another area.

The successful applicant will be an excellent pianist, with experience in piano accompaniment. Whilst this is a full-time role, working hours will be flexible, and will include evenings and weekends.

Away from music, the successful applicant will be expected to be a co-tutor for a group of pupils in a boarding house. This involves overseeing registration, pastoral time, parent liaison and report writing, under the guidance of a more experienced colleague. They will also take responsibility for one evening duty per week in the boarding house they are attached to, as well as being involved in delivering other aspects of the boarding programme.

Safeguarding Responsibilities:

• This role will involve daily contact with pupils and you will be engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.
• All staff and volunteers have a responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for who you are responsible and with whom you come into contact.