At a Glance
- Tasks: Create a detailed catalogue for the Henry Watson Music Library's Special Collection.
- Company: Join the Manchester Music Archive, a vibrant network celebrating local music history.
- Benefits: Freelance role with competitive pay and flexible working conditions.
- Other info: Opportunity to collaborate with multiple heritage organisations and enhance your portfolio.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on preserving Manchester's rich musical heritage.
- Qualifications: Experience in archive cataloguing and ability to work independently.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 39000 £ per year.
Connecting Manchester’s Music Archive is a network founded by The National Archives’ Networks for Change programme. It consists of the Royal Northern College of Music, the Hall Concerts Society, the Henry Watson Music Library and the Manchester Digital Music Archives. CMMA is primarily a digital space where Greater Manchester’s music archives can share information about their collections, showcasing where connected archives are highlighted, with the aim of making it easier for anyone to explore Manchester’s music stories. Its primary focus is sharing the histories of musicians who have either studied or performed in Greater Manchester, and the evidence they have left behind of their work and experiences in Greater Manchester’s archives.
CMMA recently won £50,000 from The National Archives’ Cataloguing Grants Scheme in order to create a catalogue for the local heritage subsection of the Henry Watson Music Library Special Collection. There is no existing catalogue for this invaluable material, and therefore a file-level ISAD(G) catalogue is required in order to facilitate research and interest. Therefore, a freelance archivist is required to conduct this work. A programme of outreach will be delivered by the Henry Watson Music Library and CMMA as the project progresses, via further freelance support from a Community Programme Manager.
Fees and timeline
- Total fee £39,000 including expenses and VAT
- Based on an estimate of £325 per day over 120 days
- Work to start May 2026
- Project to end January 2028
Output of role
- File-level catalogue in accordance with ISAD(G) standard of the Henry Watson Music Library Special Collection (local history sub-collection)
- Item-level catalogue for some priority areas if time permits
Location of role
Central Library, Manchester. Initial work to be undertaken in the archive strong room and later work to be undertaken in the ground floor search room. Any secondary locations are based in Manchester city centre/online.
Required skills
- Experienced archivist with proven expertise in creating archive catalogues for complex collections
- Implementation of necessary ISAD(G) requirements
- Confidence working independently with minimal supervision, excellent time management
- Comfortable working at height for short periods (cherry picker training will be given for work in the strong room)
- Proven success in working on temporary projects
- Experience working on a collaborative project featuring multiple heritage/information management services
- Will bring own laptop for creating spreadsheets (.xls, .xlsx)
- Has own private email account for freelance work
Beneficial but not required skills
- General knowledge of musical terminology
- General knowledge of Manchester’s music‑making history
- ARA‑certified post‑graduate qualification / completed archives apprenticeship / ARA Professional Registration
Job Responsibilities
Independent working to create an ISAD‑G and MPLP compliant catalogue of the local history subsection of the HWML Special Collection, in line with wider project timeline and activities.
Interviews will be informally held online on 27th April.
Application Process
If you would like to be considered for this role please provide:
- An up-to-date CV including links to catalogues you have previously created
- Two references relating to your freelance work (these may be contacted prior to appointment)
- A cover letter (maximum 1500 words), detailing rationale and methodology for approaching and creating a catalogue for this material, referencing previous experience where appropriate
For more information about the project role, please contact Heather Roberts, RNCM Archive and Museum Manager at heather.roberts@rncm.ac.uk to arrange a conversation.
Henry Watson Music Library Cataloguing Archivist (freelance), Manchester Music Archive employer: Art In Liverpool
The Manchester Music Archive offers a unique opportunity for freelance archivists to contribute to the rich musical heritage of Greater Manchester. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, employees can expect a supportive work culture that values independent initiative and creativity. The role not only provides competitive remuneration but also the chance to make a meaningful impact on local history through the preservation and cataloguing of invaluable music collections.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Henry Watson Music Library Cataloguing Archivist (freelance), Manchester Music Archive
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with folks in the music and archive sectors, especially those linked to the Manchester Music Archive. Attend local events or online meet-ups to make yourself known and show off your passion for music history.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous cataloguing work. Make sure to include links to any catalogues you've created, as this will give potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those informal interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of ISAD(G) standards and be ready to discuss your methodology for creating catalogues. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the process closely.
We think you need these skills to ace Henry Watson Music Library Cataloguing Archivist (freelance), Manchester Music Archive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your experience with archive catalogues and any relevant projects you've worked on. Don’t forget to include links to your previous catalogues – we want to see your work!
Nail the Cover Letter:This is your chance to shine! Keep it concise and focused on your methodology for creating the catalogue. Make sure to reference your past experiences that relate directly to this role. We love seeing how you think!
Get Your References Ready:Choose references who can vouch for your freelance work and expertise in archiving. Let them know they might be contacted, so they’re prepared to sing your praises when we reach out!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Art In Liverpool
✨Know Your ISAD(G) Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the ISAD(G) standards before your interview. Brush up on how to apply these guidelines to create a file-level catalogue, as this will be a key focus of the role. Being able to discuss your previous experiences with ISAD(G) will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical knowledge too.
✨Showcase Your Previous Work
Prepare to share specific examples of catalogues you’ve created in the past. Bring along links or even printed copies if possible. This will help demonstrate your expertise and give the interviewers a tangible sense of your capabilities. They’ll want to see how your experience aligns with the needs of the Henry Watson Music Library.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Manchester’s Music History
Since the role involves working with Manchester’s music archives, having a general knowledge of the local music scene will be beneficial. Research notable musicians and events that have shaped the city’s musical landscape. This will not only impress the interviewers but also help you connect better with the project’s goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with questions about the project and the team. Ask about their vision for the catalogue and how they see it impacting the community. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
