Leader
| Posting date: | 25 June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | Terms to be negotiated |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 25 July 2025 |
| Location: | Gateshead, NE8 2JR |
| Company: | North Music Trust |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 242 |
Summary
Job Advert
Royal Northern Sinfonia
LEADER
Deadline for applications: 17.00 on Monday 08 September 2025
Department & Team: Royal Northern Sinfonia & Classical Team
Location: The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
Working Hours and Salary: Terms to be negotiated
Position in Organisation: Leader – Royal Northern Sinfonia
Reports to: Senior Orchestra & Personnel Manager
Works in conjunction with: Executive Director RNS & Classical Music, RNS musicians and wider Classical Team
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please upload a CV and covering letter, explaining how your skills, strengths and experience meet the requirements of
the role. The deadline for applications is 17.00 on Monday 08 September 2025.
We will let all applicants know by email whether they have been selected for audition by Friday 12th September at the latest.
AUDITIONS
Auditions will take place on Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 September 2025 at a The Warehouse, Theed Street, London SE1 8ST with
additional dates to be scheduled during the first week of January 2026.
The audition will consist of two parts:
Part A - A screened audition of the first movement of a Classical Concerto (with cadenza) and a movement of a romantic concerto of
your own choice
An accompanist will be provided but do bring your own should you wish. The piano will be tuned to A=440.
Part B - An un-screened audition of orchestral excerpts plus chamber music with members of the panel. The excerpts and chamber
music are listed below and can be found attached.
Excerpts
JS BACH Mass in B Minor, Laudamus te, b. 1-12 and b. 48-end
MENDELSSOHN Symphony No. 4, 1st Movement, b. 1-110
BRAHMS Symphony No. 1, 2nd Movement, b. 90-end
R STRAUSS Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, Tailor’s Dance, beginning to fig. 52 and 3 before fig. 57 to 4 before the end
RAVEL Mother Goose Suite, 4th Movement, fig. 6 to 10 before the end; 5th Movement, fig. 2 to the end
STRAVINSKY Pulcinella, Scherzino, fig. 22-32
Chamber Music
HAYDN String Quartet Op. 64, no. 4, 1st Movement
ABOUT THE ORCHESTRA
Music Director Dinis Sousa
Artistic Partner Maria Włoszczowska
Principal Guest Conductor Nil Venditti
Associate Conductor Ellie Slorach
Conductor Laureate Thomas Zehetmair
Internationally renowned, calling Gateshead home.
Wherever the orchestra play and whoever they share a stage with, every performance is ‘a feast for the heart and mind’ (The
Telegraph).
37 musicians at the top of their game. Electrifying music, old and new. All the talent, determination, and creativity of the North
East on a worldwide stage. From their home at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Royal Northern Sinfonia share the joy
and wonder of orchestral music with thousands of people across the North of England - and beyond - every year.
From symphonies to string quartets, film soundtracks to choral masses, and performances with awesome artists from Sheku
Kanneh-Mason to Self Esteem, the orchestra’s members have got one of the most varied jobs there is. No two weeks are ever the
same.
They look for fresh new sounds from up-and-coming composers, invite local communities to share a stage, and do everything they
can to inspire and prepare the musicians of tomorrow to one day take their place. They’re also working hard to smash the barriers
that can stop brilliant people getting into classical music. They’ve teamed up with national partners to support women conductors
to develop their careers, to help global majority musicians get vital experience in the orchestra world, and to celebrate disabled
and non-disabled musicians breaking new ground together in inclusive ensemble RNS Moves.
They travel far and wide to make sure there’s top-notch classical music on offer across the North. You’ll find them in rural
churches, town halls, community centres and sports halls, as well as taking charge of concert series in Carlisle, Kendal,
Middlesbrough, and Sunderland. International tours have taken them to almost every country in Europe, to Asia, South America and
most recently South Korea.
With 65 years of success to build on, they’ve signed a dynamic artistic leadership to lead the way into a bold bright future.
Music Director Dinis Sousa and Principal Guest Conductor Nil Venditti were both nominated in the Best Conductor category at the
Royal Philharmonic Society Awards 2025. Artistic Partner Maria Włoszczowska is blazing a trail directing from the violin and
Associate Conductor Ellie Slorach is leading the way on concerts for schools and families.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE AND PERSON SPECIFICATION
The new Leader of Royal Northern Sinfonia will be an extremely gifted musician, with outstanding leadership and communication
skills.
They will have a wide range of experience at the highest level, not only as an orchestra leader but also directing and in solo and
chamber work. They will be actively involved in the artistic life of the orchestra by contributing to future programming by
suggesting repertoire, soloists and conductors.
They will be excited at the prospect of performing in many different formations under the banner of Royal Northern Sinfonia and
will be determined to play their part in audience development, brimming with project ideas, and be a passionate communicator about
classical music to different audiences in different settings. They will want to play a full part in the orchestral and musical
life in Tyneside and the wider region and see themselves as advocates for the orchestra and The Glasshouse.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
The Leader’s role encompasses a wide range of skills and responsibilities both on and off the concert platform but some of the
key elements are to:
* Lead the orchestra during rehearsals and performances for concerts, broadcasts for radio, television and streaming, taking
responsibility for style, intonation, ensemble and balance in conjunction with the Conductor or Director and being proactive in
the time management of rehearsals.
* Perform solos and concertos and play/direct chamber music and a certain number of orchestral projects per season.
* Work with all Section Leaders to achieve and maintain the highest possible artistic standards throughout the orchestra.
* Advise on any personnel and contractual matters relating to the orchestra.
* Ensure professional orchestral etiquette and discipline are maintained whilst the orchestra is in rehearsal and/or performance
to create a positive working environment.
* Take a proactive role as a key artistic figure, liaising between the orchestra, the Music Director and the Administration, as
well as with Guest Conductors and Directors.
* Be actively involved in the recruitment process for new members as a member of audition panels, and hearing musicians who are
on trial for vacant positions.
* Play an active role in promoting the orchestra’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy and helping to develop and champion
collaboration and creativity.
* Act as an ambassador for Royal Northern Sinfonia and The Glasshouse ICM, including attending any functions or receptions,
talking to regional and national press, and local and BBC radio.
Creative Learning is a vital part of the work of the orchestra and The Glasshouse ICM and the Leader will play a key role in
championing and contributing to this work through:
* Giving informal performances and recitals in the community or in schools.
* Participating in and leading workshops and creative composition sessions in schools.
* Engagement with The Glasshouse’s Make Music programme which includes the Centre for Advanced Training, two ‘In Harmony’ Schools
and Young Sinfonia.
* RNS’ work with young people, including schools concerts.
* Coaching of individuals and ensembles, both adults and young people.
* Participating in planning and evaluation meetings
WORKING IN THE UK AND ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Successful applicants will be asked to present the relevant documents to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK.
For the right candidate, we are open to supporting the process of obtaining the necessary permissions or visa to work legally in
the UK, so please don’t let this requirement discourage you from applying.
More information can be found at www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk [http://www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk]
SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND VULNERABLE ADULTS
The Glasshouse is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect
all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. For posts where there is contact with children, young people and vulnerable
adults, the job advertisement and person specification will specify that a check is a requirement.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES MONITORING
The Glasshouse aims to be an equal opportunities employer, and it is our policy all applicants and employees receive equal
treatment regardless of sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age, marital status or civil partnership,
pregnancy/ maternity or gender reassignment. Recruitment and selection procedures will be monitored to ensure that individuals are
selected and treated based on their relevant merits and abilities.
Royal Northern Sinfonia
LEADER
Deadline for applications: 17.00 on Monday 08 September 2025
Department & Team: Royal Northern Sinfonia & Classical Team
Location: The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
Working Hours and Salary: Terms to be negotiated
Position in Organisation: Leader – Royal Northern Sinfonia
Reports to: Senior Orchestra & Personnel Manager
Works in conjunction with: Executive Director RNS & Classical Music, RNS musicians and wider Classical Team
HOW TO APPLY
To apply, please upload a CV and covering letter, explaining how your skills, strengths and experience meet the requirements of
the role. The deadline for applications is 17.00 on Monday 08 September 2025.
We will let all applicants know by email whether they have been selected for audition by Friday 12th September at the latest.
AUDITIONS
Auditions will take place on Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 September 2025 at a The Warehouse, Theed Street, London SE1 8ST with
additional dates to be scheduled during the first week of January 2026.
The audition will consist of two parts:
Part A - A screened audition of the first movement of a Classical Concerto (with cadenza) and a movement of a romantic concerto of
your own choice
An accompanist will be provided but do bring your own should you wish. The piano will be tuned to A=440.
Part B - An un-screened audition of orchestral excerpts plus chamber music with members of the panel. The excerpts and chamber
music are listed below and can be found attached.
Excerpts
JS BACH Mass in B Minor, Laudamus te, b. 1-12 and b. 48-end
MENDELSSOHN Symphony No. 4, 1st Movement, b. 1-110
BRAHMS Symphony No. 1, 2nd Movement, b. 90-end
R STRAUSS Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, Tailor’s Dance, beginning to fig. 52 and 3 before fig. 57 to 4 before the end
RAVEL Mother Goose Suite, 4th Movement, fig. 6 to 10 before the end; 5th Movement, fig. 2 to the end
STRAVINSKY Pulcinella, Scherzino, fig. 22-32
Chamber Music
HAYDN String Quartet Op. 64, no. 4, 1st Movement
ABOUT THE ORCHESTRA
Music Director Dinis Sousa
Artistic Partner Maria Włoszczowska
Principal Guest Conductor Nil Venditti
Associate Conductor Ellie Slorach
Conductor Laureate Thomas Zehetmair
Internationally renowned, calling Gateshead home.
Wherever the orchestra play and whoever they share a stage with, every performance is ‘a feast for the heart and mind’ (The
Telegraph).
37 musicians at the top of their game. Electrifying music, old and new. All the talent, determination, and creativity of the North
East on a worldwide stage. From their home at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Royal Northern Sinfonia share the joy
and wonder of orchestral music with thousands of people across the North of England - and beyond - every year.
From symphonies to string quartets, film soundtracks to choral masses, and performances with awesome artists from Sheku
Kanneh-Mason to Self Esteem, the orchestra’s members have got one of the most varied jobs there is. No two weeks are ever the
same.
They look for fresh new sounds from up-and-coming composers, invite local communities to share a stage, and do everything they
can to inspire and prepare the musicians of tomorrow to one day take their place. They’re also working hard to smash the barriers
that can stop brilliant people getting into classical music. They’ve teamed up with national partners to support women conductors
to develop their careers, to help global majority musicians get vital experience in the orchestra world, and to celebrate disabled
and non-disabled musicians breaking new ground together in inclusive ensemble RNS Moves.
They travel far and wide to make sure there’s top-notch classical music on offer across the North. You’ll find them in rural
churches, town halls, community centres and sports halls, as well as taking charge of concert series in Carlisle, Kendal,
Middlesbrough, and Sunderland. International tours have taken them to almost every country in Europe, to Asia, South America and
most recently South Korea.
With 65 years of success to build on, they’ve signed a dynamic artistic leadership to lead the way into a bold bright future.
Music Director Dinis Sousa and Principal Guest Conductor Nil Venditti were both nominated in the Best Conductor category at the
Royal Philharmonic Society Awards 2025. Artistic Partner Maria Włoszczowska is blazing a trail directing from the violin and
Associate Conductor Ellie Slorach is leading the way on concerts for schools and families.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE AND PERSON SPECIFICATION
The new Leader of Royal Northern Sinfonia will be an extremely gifted musician, with outstanding leadership and communication
skills.
They will have a wide range of experience at the highest level, not only as an orchestra leader but also directing and in solo and
chamber work. They will be actively involved in the artistic life of the orchestra by contributing to future programming by
suggesting repertoire, soloists and conductors.
They will be excited at the prospect of performing in many different formations under the banner of Royal Northern Sinfonia and
will be determined to play their part in audience development, brimming with project ideas, and be a passionate communicator about
classical music to different audiences in different settings. They will want to play a full part in the orchestral and musical
life in Tyneside and the wider region and see themselves as advocates for the orchestra and The Glasshouse.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
The Leader’s role encompasses a wide range of skills and responsibilities both on and off the concert platform but some of the
key elements are to:
* Lead the orchestra during rehearsals and performances for concerts, broadcasts for radio, television and streaming, taking
responsibility for style, intonation, ensemble and balance in conjunction with the Conductor or Director and being proactive in
the time management of rehearsals.
* Perform solos and concertos and play/direct chamber music and a certain number of orchestral projects per season.
* Work with all Section Leaders to achieve and maintain the highest possible artistic standards throughout the orchestra.
* Advise on any personnel and contractual matters relating to the orchestra.
* Ensure professional orchestral etiquette and discipline are maintained whilst the orchestra is in rehearsal and/or performance
to create a positive working environment.
* Take a proactive role as a key artistic figure, liaising between the orchestra, the Music Director and the Administration, as
well as with Guest Conductors and Directors.
* Be actively involved in the recruitment process for new members as a member of audition panels, and hearing musicians who are
on trial for vacant positions.
* Play an active role in promoting the orchestra’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy and helping to develop and champion
collaboration and creativity.
* Act as an ambassador for Royal Northern Sinfonia and The Glasshouse ICM, including attending any functions or receptions,
talking to regional and national press, and local and BBC radio.
Creative Learning is a vital part of the work of the orchestra and The Glasshouse ICM and the Leader will play a key role in
championing and contributing to this work through:
* Giving informal performances and recitals in the community or in schools.
* Participating in and leading workshops and creative composition sessions in schools.
* Engagement with The Glasshouse’s Make Music programme which includes the Centre for Advanced Training, two ‘In Harmony’ Schools
and Young Sinfonia.
* RNS’ work with young people, including schools concerts.
* Coaching of individuals and ensembles, both adults and young people.
* Participating in planning and evaluation meetings
WORKING IN THE UK AND ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Successful applicants will be asked to present the relevant documents to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK.
For the right candidate, we are open to supporting the process of obtaining the necessary permissions or visa to work legally in
the UK, so please don’t let this requirement discourage you from applying.
More information can be found at www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk [http://www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk]
SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND VULNERABLE ADULTS
The Glasshouse is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect
all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. For posts where there is contact with children, young people and vulnerable
adults, the job advertisement and person specification will specify that a check is a requirement.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES MONITORING
The Glasshouse aims to be an equal opportunities employer, and it is our policy all applicants and employees receive equal
treatment regardless of sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age, marital status or civil partnership,
pregnancy/ maternity or gender reassignment. Recruitment and selection procedures will be monitored to ensure that individuals are
selected and treated based on their relevant merits and abilities.