How to Hire a Guest Conductor

Whether your regular conductor is away, you are preparing for a special concert, or you simply want fresh musical input, hiring a guest conductor can transform your choir’s performance. But finding the right person requires thought. Here is what to consider.

When to Hire a Guest Conductor

There are several situations where bringing in a guest conductor makes sense. Covering for your regular director during illness, holiday, or sabbatical ensures your choir keeps rehearsing and does not lose momentum. Special events and concerts sometimes benefit from a specialist – for instance, a conductor with experience in a particular period or style that matches your programme. Workshop days and rehearsal weekends are an excellent opportunity to bring in outside expertise, giving your singers new perspectives and techniques without replacing your regular director.

You might also consider a guest conductor during a recruitment period between permanent directors. Having a reliable, experienced conductor keeping things running smoothly gives your committee time to find the right long-term appointment without the choir suffering.

What to Look For

Relevant experience – Does the conductor have experience with your type of choir? Working with a professional chamber ensemble is very different from directing a community choir of mixed abilities. Look for someone who has worked with groups similar to yours in size, standard, and repertoire.

Musical versatility – A good guest conductor should be comfortable with the repertoire you need to rehearse, but also able to bring their own musical ideas and interpretations. Ask about their repertoire preferences and experience with the specific works on your programme.

Communication skills – The best conductors are also effective teachers. They can explain what they want clearly, demonstrate vocally, and adapt their approach to different singers. A guest conductor who cannot communicate effectively with your members will waste valuable rehearsal time.

Personality fit – Your choir has its own culture and personality. A guest conductor needs to work with that, not against it. Some choirs thrive on intensity and discipline; others need a lighter, more encouraging approach. Think about what your singers respond to best.

Where to Find Guest Conductors

Personal recommendations are the most reliable route. Ask other choral societies in your area who they have used. Making Music, the UK’s organisation for voluntary music groups, can also be a useful resource.

Local music networks – Cathedral musicians, university music departments, and professional ensembles are all good sources. Many professional singers and choral directors are happy to take on guest conducting work alongside their other commitments.

Online presence – Most working conductors have a website or professional profile where you can see their experience, repertoire interests, and approach. Look for evidence of the kind of work you need – concert preparation, workshop leading, or ongoing cover.

Practical Considerations

Brief them properly – Send the conductor your repertoire list, voice part breakdown, rehearsal schedule, and any specific goals (concert dates, competition preparation, etc.). The more context they have, the more productive the session will be.

Agree fees upfront – Guest conducting fees vary depending on experience, travel distance, and the length of engagement. Agree a clear fee before booking, including any travel expenses. Most conductors will quote per rehearsal or per day for workshops.

Provide scores and parts – Make sure the conductor has access to all the music in advance. If your choir uses specific editions or arrangements, send these rather than assuming the conductor will have them.