At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the viola section in a dynamic professional orchestra and inspire fellow musicians.
- Company: Ulster Orchestra, Northern Ireland's only professional symphony orchestra with a rich history.
- Benefits: Engaging work environment, opportunities for community engagement, and diverse musical activities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and equality, welcoming applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Join a talented team and make a real impact on the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland.
- Qualifications: Professional orchestral experience, strong solo ability, and excellent leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for a Section Leader Viola to join our dynamic orchestra! As Northern Ireland’s only professional symphony orchestra, we have continuously attracted some of the best musicians the industry has to offer, affording us the ability to create an inspiring year-round programme of symphonic events, chamber music, broadcast concerts for BBC Radio 3 and BBC Radio Ulster, as well as a fun and varied Pops programme.
We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate musical excellence at a professional orchestral level and a commitment to always delivering a high standard of work. Section Leader candidates will also demonstrate strong solo ability and inspirational leadership in both musical and non-musical aspects, with strong communication skills and the ability to actively develop and support relationships within the section and the wider orchestral society.
A position with the Ulster Orchestra offers you a wide and varied career, where you will be part of an engaged and dedicated team of talented musicians – as we say in our core values, we are aspirational, ambitious, creative and progressive!
In addition to orchestral work, you will have the opportunity to be involved in a range of non-platform activities, including diverse Learning and Community Engagement activities and chamber music playing, as well as creating and leading your own non-orchestral activity.
Further information on the job requirements, application and selection process, along with benefits of working for the Ulster Orchestra, can be found in the recruitment pack which you can download from the UO website. The closing date for initial applications is 2nd August 2026 and no applications after this date will be accepted. Applications must be made via the Musical Chairs website.
If you require any reasonable adjustment(s) at any stage of the recruitment process, please feel encouraged to contact our People & Culture Leader. The Ulster Orchestra strives to be fully representative of all demographical aspects of society and to offer a truly inclusive working environment. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. Within this context we particularly encourage applications from people with disabilities, LGBTQI+, Black, Asian and other global majority backgrounds, and those from backgrounds of social and economic deprivation. The appointment will be made on merit with openness and transparency of process.
About the Organisation: Founded in 1966, the Ulster Orchestra has been at the forefront of musical life in Northern Ireland for 60 years, with the Orchestra’s full-time musicians forming the region’s only professional symphony orchestra. With a mission to enrich the lives of people living in Northern Ireland, those visiting, and those who encounter it through international touring and regular radio and TV broadcasts with both BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Radio 3, the Orchestra strives for excellence in all it undertakes, be it regular concert performances, learning and community engagement programmes, or creative collaborations across the arts.
Section Leader Viola Ulster Orchestra in Belfast employer: Artscouncil Ni
The Ulster Orchestra is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work environment for musicians who are passionate about their craft. As Northern Ireland's only professional symphony orchestra, we provide unique opportunities for artistic growth, collaboration, and community engagement, all while being part of a dedicated team that values creativity and ambition. Join us to not only perform at a high level but also to lead and inspire others in a supportive and dynamic setting.
