JOB DESCRIPTION FOR THE POST OF

Lay Clerk

(Part-Time)

PURPOSE

The purpose of this role is to assist in the delivering the Cathedral’s liturgical music programme as a member of the Cathedral Choir.

The person appointed will be employed by the Cathedral Chapter, on whose behalf the Director of Operations provides overall management for all contracted employees.

The Line Manager for this post will be the Director of Music.

CONTEXT

The post of Lay Clerk is located within Ripon Cathedral, which is a place of Christian Worship and Mission within the Church of England. The person appointed will be expected to respond positively to this ethos.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Music

  • To sing as a member of the Cathedral Choir at statutory and non-statutory services and other events as deemed necessary including tours, concerts and recordings
  • To attend all pre-service and additional rehearsals as required
  • To prepare music thoroughly in advance of performance
  • To be a role model for the Choristers by displaying exemplary professional conduct, and musical skill and preparation.
  • To ensure personal workspaces, music and robes are kept in a neat and tidy fashion.
  • To attend all regular meetings and briefings within the Cathedral appropriate for members of staff and for the management of the Music Department, and others as deemed necessary from time to time.
  • To co-operate with the Dean, Clergy, Director of Music and other staff members in the delivery of worship.

Compliance

  • To ensure that all work and activities are undertaken in compliance with applicable statutes, regulations and directives regarding Health & Safety, Fire and Security, including the Cathedral’s internal policies and procedures.
  • To take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions at work.

General

  • To be accountable for own development through the appraisal process seeking out opportunities to learn new skills.

In addition, all employees are expected to work within the terms of their contract of employment and adhere to the Cathedral’s policies and practices.

Occasionally situations may arise that require the post holder to perform other duties and tasks as may be reasonably requested by the Chapter of the Cathedral.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Qualities

  • Understanding of and willingness to promote the distinctive ethos of the Church of England, including the Anglican liturgy and the role of music within that.
  • Understanding and delivery of the required standards of behaviour and professional conduct in a sacred workplace.
  • Previous experience of singing in a choir, preferably with a liturgical bias.
  • Excellent vocal skill and technique including the ability to blend.
  • The ability to read music.
  • Good sight singing skill.
  • Willingness to work, communicate and socialise with the other Lay Clerks and with Music Staff, demonstrating tact and diplomacy.
  • Good personal organisation and time management including punctual timekeeping.
  • Experience of working with children.
  • IT skills including the use of standard PC software.
  • Contactable by mobile phone and email.

1