At a Glance
- Tasks: Support music sessions, engage with participants, and foster a positive environment.
- Company: Ensemble Unheard, a vibrant musical community in London.
- Benefits: Gain experience, connect with diverse individuals, and contribute to meaningful change.
- Other info: Join us in creating a safe and welcoming space for all.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping others discover the joy of music.
- Qualifications: Friendly, reliable, and compassionate; musical experience is a plus.
Reports to: Social Purpose Producer
Salary: Voluntary
Location: London
Brief Description
Launching in September 2026, Ensemble Unheard is a new musical community of people from all walks of life who come together to create and perform as an orchestra. Participants, including people experiencing homelessness and facing other life challenges, work alongside professional musicians in a space built on trust, curiosity, and creative risk. The group welcomes people picking up instruments for the first time and those reconnecting with music after years away. Through improvisation, shared responsibility, and joyful, vibrant performances, the group builds creative confidence and belonging.
Those involved in Ensemble Unheard, as staff or as participants, have the opportunity to connect with people from a range of backgrounds in a creative setting. Everyone has responsibility for ensuring the environment is safe, welcoming and creative for all those who want to be part of the group. We expect all those involved to take part actively in sessions, holding any responsibilities specific to their role alongside buying in to the overall spirit of the group.
We are looking for friendly, reliable and compassionate Volunteer Session Supporters to help create a safe, welcoming and positive environment during our music sessions for people experiencing homelessness. Volunteers are expected to take part in music-making sessions alongside participants, learning and creating music as part of the group and setting a positive example toward engagement. At times, you may be asked to help certain individuals with their instrumental learning. While not a requirement, we are interested to hear from people who have experience playing string, brass, guitar or percussion instruments.
This is a supportive participant-facing role where you will help people feel comfortable, encouraged, and included. You will play an important part in building an atmosphere where participants feel supported in engaging with music-making at their own pace. You will be expected to support a positive group environment and encourage people in line with our behaviour policy, helping to create a safe environment by reporting any concerns.
Closing date for applications: 10am, Friday 7 August 2026
Ensemble Unheard: Volunteer Session Support employer: Academy of St Martin in the Fields
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and collaboration within the orchestral community. With a commitment to employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities while enjoying generous benefits such as 25 days of holiday and a competitive salary. Located in the heart of the UK’s cultural scene, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to impactful performances and projects that resonate with audiences.
Contact Details:
Academy of St Martin in the Fields Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ensemble Unheard: Volunteer Session Support
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Ensemble Unheard: Volunteer Session Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Academy of St Martin in the Fields, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at Academy of St Martin in the Fields.
How to prepare for a job interview at Academy of St Martin in the Fields
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of Academy of St Martin in the Fields and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
