The Brass Band Forum

Hi, after a long while with the goodfortune of not having to pay our MD's it looks as though we may have to! Can anyone tell me approximately what the going rate is for a MD? We don't want to turn down a bargain - or get fleeced either!!

many thanks

I don't think there's a simple answer to that question. It depends on a lot of different things:
- what standard is the band?
- where is the band based?
- how good is that individual conductor/how much experience do they have?
- how far will the conductor have to travel to rehearsal?
- will the conductor be expected to teach as part of their position or will they be able to offer private lessons to those from the band that wish to fund them for themselves?
- are you employing a resident conductor or an MD?
- what is a reasonable sum in accordance with the money the band has coming in?

However, you should remember; to a certain extent conductors are like any other service you employ, if you pay peanuts you get monkeys. It's always worth finding out what their current position pays and making an offer based on that (higher or lower depending on if you know the circumstances under which they are leaving). Alternatively, decide what you would be willing to pay for the right applicant prior to holding auditions and then ask them to suggest a ball-park figure.

Also, what qualifications does he/she have? For example do they have a relevant music degree?

sorry, thought I covered that in how good/experience. But yeh, that too.

Thanks for the advice - certainly plenty to go on, hopefully we'll find a replacement with out too much difficulty