Choir Lead / Musical Director

Volunteer Choir Lead / Musical Director

Different Voices. One Song

Sandbach & Crewe, Cheshire | Tuesday evenings | Voluntary role

Company / Project DescriptionDifferent Voices. One Song is a one-off voluntary choir and recording project bringing neurodivergent people, ambassadors and allies together to create a collective recording for public release around World Mental Health Day in October 2026.

The project is built around the belief that nobody should have to stand alone to be heard. Through a limited series of rehearsals and a final studio recording day, Different Voices. One Song aims to celebrate shared voice, visibility, inclusion and creativity, while challenging stigma and showing the power of collective expression.

This is not about perfection. It is about belonging, confidence, connection and creating something meaningful together.

The project will bring together singers of mixed experience, including people who may never have sung in a choir before. It is especially important that the Choir Lead / Musical Director can create a safe, warm and encouraging environment where people feel supported, valued and confident enough to use their voices.

Role DescriptionThis is an on-site volunteer role based in the Sandbach and Crewe area of Cheshire for a Choir Lead / Musical Director.

The successful volunteer will help shape and lead the musical direction of Different Voices. One Song, working with the project creator and team to prepare a group of neurodivergent singers, ambassadors and allies for a one-song studio recording.

The role will involve leading rehearsals, helping structure and arrange the song for a mixed-ability group, supporting singers with varying levels of confidence, and working collaboratively with any musicians, accompanists or recording partners involved in the project.

The choir will rehearse across 12 Tuesday evening sessions, currently planned from Tuesday 26 May 2026 to Tuesday 11 August 2026, followed by a full-day studio recording on Saturday 15 August 2026, TBC.

Key ResponsibilitiesThe Choir Lead / Musical Director will help with:

Leading accessible, inclusive and encouraging choir rehearsalsHelping select the most suitable key and vocal structure for the groupCreating or shaping a simple but powerful vocal arrangementTeaching vocal parts in a way that works for people who may not read musicSupporting singers with mixed confidence and musical experienceHelping participants feel safe, included and able to contributeAdvising on vocal technique, breathing, confidence and group soundWorking with musicians, accompanists or backing tracks where neededPreparing the choir for the final recording dayHelping maintain the emotional heart of the project: unity, visibility, inclusion and collective voice
Time CommitmentLocation: Sandbach and Crewe area, CheshireRehearsals: Tuesday eveningsDates: 12 rehearsals from Tuesday 26 May 2026 to Tuesday 11 August 2026Recording day: Saturday 15 August 2026, TBCRole type: VoluntaryProject type: One-off community music and recording project
Personal QualitiesWe are looking for someone who is:

Warm, patient and encouragingConfident leading a roomAble to bring out the best in peopleSensitive to different communication styles and confidence levelsCreative but practicalCalm under pressureCollaborative and flexiblePassionate about music as a tool for connection, confidence and inclusion
Why Get Involved?This is a chance to be part of something genuinely meaningful.

Different Voices. One Song is about more than a performance or a recording. It is about helping people who may have felt misunderstood, judged or unheard to experience the strength of singing together.

The finished recording is intended for public release around World Mental Health Day in October 2026, with the potential to attract regional, national and wider attention. The project aims to amplify neurodivergent voices, challenge stigma and create a lasting piece of music that everyone involved can feel proud of.

How to Apply / Express InterestTo express interest, please send a short introduction outlining your relevant experience, availability and why this project speaks to you.

Recommendations and introductions are also very welcome.

Contact:

Sheila Manzano

[email protected]