APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 ARE NOW CLOSED

We will remove this notice when we start accepting applications for ADP membership in 2026

UNDER THE TUTELAGE of Elise Bradley MNZM and Dr Karen Grylls CNZM, the Hamilton Civic Choir runs an Artist Development Programme (ADP) to promote the development of choral conducting skills within the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions. Each accepted member gets the opportunity to receive one-on-one conducting lessons, participate in workshops, lead rehearsals, and conduct the choir in at least one concert each year for one piece or more.

The Hamilton Civic Choir is delighted to offer its Artist Development Programme in 2025. Up to six (6) membership positions are available for choral conductors wishing to develop their skills and have the opportunity to conduct a high caliber community choir alongside two of New Zealand’s premiere choral conductors.

Please read the full description of the Artist Development Programme here.

“I’m so grateful for everything you taught me during my time on the ADP course. It was not just the improvements to my own technique, but getting to sing with HCC gave me a real opportunity to improve my singing and learn ways that you can get great results from a choir. Being able to have both [Elise Bradley] and Dr. Grylls lead us was such a beneficial experience, and I am so excited to get back in front of my choir and get them up to the next level!” -ADP participant

Who can apply:

• The ADP program is a choral conducting development program where choral conductors at any stage of their development are able to advance their skills, which in turn promote the quality of choral music performed in New Zealand

What you need to do:

• Send an email to our Secretary (secretary@hamiltoncivicchoir.org.nz) and include both a CV plus cover letter addressing why you wish to be a part of the program as well as indicating your availability for workshops and concerts in 2025 (see the full description for dates in 2025)
• You will then be contacted by our Secretary and, in turn, our Music Director, Elise Bradley MNZM for a casual interview via phone call or video chat
• Applications close on Friday, 31st January 2025

What happens if you are chosen to be an ADP member:

• The cost of the program is $250 per member per year; some former program members have had this cost met by their employer as part of their professional development
• ADP members are expected to attend all ADP workshops throughout the year, which coincide with the Hamilton Civic Choir’s weekend workshops that fall on a Saturday or Sunday (approximately 4 times per year)
• For ADP members who are not current Hamilton Civic Choir (HCC) members, they will receive complimentary HCC membership for the one term where their conducting will take place; during this term, members are expected to sing as part of the choir except for the pieces they are conducting

“I’m delighted with how my piece went in the concert, and in fact how the whole concert went — it was wonderful to sing in and feel that we did those lovely pieces justice.” -ADP participant

If you are looking for additional information or have further questions about our Artist Development Programme, feel free to contact our Secretary: secretary@hamiltoncivicchoir.org.nz

We look forward to hearing from you!

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