Papagena is looking for a new Alto 2

SUMMARY

International vocal ensemble Papagena welcomes applications for a low alto to join the group in 2027.

No props, microphones or gimmicks, just five stunning voices form Papagena. The group’s programming defies pigeonholing, binding classical, folk, medieval and contemporary repertoire into musical narratives spanning over twelve centuries. Works by female composers from 9th century abbess Kassia to Kate Bush, from Hildegard of Bingen and Leonora d’Este to Kate Rusby and Caroline Shaw, rub shoulders with pieces by Purcell, Monteverdi and MacMillan and folk arrangements from Nigeria to Ukraine and all cultures in between.

The group has toured extensively, giving performances at numerous Music Festivals and events both in the UK and internationally and been featured on BBC Radio 3, Scala FM, Classic FM and BBC Radio 4. Papagena will be the Associate Artist for the University of Liverpool and the Tung Auditorium for their 2026-27 season.

Papagena has recorded three recordings on the SOMM Recordings label, the latest of which, Tomorrow is Today, was released in spring 2026 to critical acclaim.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are looking for a low alto to complete our line up as a fifth voice in the group, replacing Sarah Tenant-Flowers as she transitions into her new role as Associate Director. Our members are freelance performers and we offer competitive remuneration for concerts. We run rehearsal days prior to the performances (when required) and this is included in the concert fees. We are based in the UK and run rehearsal days in Oxford, Warwickshire and London. Papagena is self-administered with no current management representation. This allows the group to have autonomy over its work and it means that each member takes on parts of the responsibilities in running the group.

Essential:

Able to comfortably sing in the low female vocal range
Experience in working in a vocal consort setting
Excellent listening skills and adaptability
High level of sight reading
Able to sing in different genres (classical, pop, folk, medieval) flexibly
Based in the UK
Willing to contribute to the development of the group

Desirable:

Able to drive

HOW TO APPLY

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday 21st August 2026, (before 23:59)

To apply, please complete this form, submitting the following:

CV/resume
Covering letter or short film (2 mins max) introducing yourself and outlining why you are interested in the role
Two contrasting sound clips/videos

We recommend that you upload any recordings to YouTube as unlisted and submit the links for consideration.

We will be holding auditions on 8th, 9th and 13th September in the UK. Please indicate your preference for audition dates in the form.

The role will commence in January 2027 in preparation for our season, starting in March 2027.

For all other queries, please email: info@papagena.co.uk