Leader, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

JOB DETAILS

CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent, (0.4 FTE)
DEPARTMENT: BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
LOCATION:  The Studios, BBC MediaCityUK, Salford

SALARY:  Subject to negotiation, depending on relevant skills, knowledge and experience.

To be considered for this position, candidates will need to apply via Musicalchairs by clicking on the link below, and complete a short information form and upload a CV.  The deadline for applications is 9.00am on Friday 7th August 2026

INTRODUCTION

The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra is the oldest radio orchestra in the world. Founded in 1922 as the 2ZY orchestra, we have been broadcasting live music for over 100 years. It’s what we do best, and 103 years later, we are still going strong.

Today, we begin the search for an inspiring and virtuosic artistic Leader to continue that mission: to work with the orchestra to shape some of the finest performances, broadcasts, and recordings in the world.  It is a crucial position, with the potential to make a spectacular contribution to the work and lives of our musicians and team here at the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra.  It’s a time of real growth for us. In the last year, we’ve launched some major new partnerships, expanded our audiences, and delivered incredible projects. From five-star Mahler at the Bridgewater Hall to critically acclaimed CD recordings; from thrilling international tours to our TV series Musical Storyland (15 million streams and counting) – the orchestra is on brilliant form.

Most importantly, we have the best possible mandate from the BBC – to create inspiring, ambitious, and courageous artistic work, and to make a large-scale impact for our audiences with that work.

If you think you have what we need, we can’t wait to meet you. 

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPACT:

• Lead the orchestra and the First Violin section in rehearsals, performances, recordings and broadcasts.
• Share leadership responsibilities with the other appointed Leaders and provide consistent artistic direction across the orchestra.
• Direct the orchestra, or specific sections, in rehearsal and performance as required.
• Work closely with the Chief Conductor to establish and maintain standards of style, intonation, balance, ensemble, rhythm and musical interpretation.
• Maintain the highest standards of professional violin playing, musical excellence and artistic integrity.
• With the management team, share the responsibility to model and support BBC policies & values including effective people management, development, diversity, inclusion and belonging.
• Prepare thoroughly for rehearsals and performances, including the study and preparation of all relevant orchestral and solo passages.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

• Exceptional professional orchestral and solo violin playing ability, with the ability to maintain and inspire the highest levels of musical and artistic excellence.
• Ability to work collaboratively to inspire and lead performances that meet the highest musical standards, by providing artistic direction and by motivating members of the orchestra.
• Effective people and performance management skills, including the ability to give constructive feedback, deal with sensitive issues and to make important decisions.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and develop harmonious working relationships with a diverse range of people.
• Ability to plan ahead in order to prepare parts, organise allocations and to make the best use of the resources available with awareness of health and safety issues.

To see the the full role specification, audition dates and process, please click:  Leader, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra Job Pack

APPLICATIONS MUST BE VIA THE MUSICALCHAIRS WEBSITE - PLEASE CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK FOR FULL DETAILS

ON HOW TO APPLY AND AUDITIONS INSTRUCTIONS:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:  FRIDAY 7TH AUGUST 2026