At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate orchestra administration, manage finances, and support rehearsals and concerts.
- Company: Join the BBC Concert Orchestra, a vibrant and inspiring musical team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to travel and work with talented musicians.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative environment that brings music to life for audiences everywhere.
- Qualifications: Experience in orchestral administration and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33800 £ per year.
CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent, Full-time
DEPARTMENT: BBC Concert Orchestra
LOCATION: Broadcasting House, London, W1A 1AA
PROPOSED SALARY RANGE: £30,000 - £33,000 (plus London Weighting of £5,441) depending on relevant skills, knowledge and experience.
The mission of the BBC Concert Orchestra is to bring inspiring musical experiences to everyone, everywhere, with the ensemble’s versatility as the key. The Orchestra explores a wide selection of classical and contemporary music and is broadcast weekly on BBC Radio 3’s Friday Night Is Music Night. It appears regularly at the BBC Proms, at London’s Southbank Centre and in Alexandra Palace Theatre, where it is Associate Orchestra. It has a partnership with the University of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent University and Nottingham Royal Concert Hall.
The BBC CO offers enjoyable and innovative education and community activities, and is involved in BBC Ten Pieces, the BBC Young Composer competition and the BBC Open Music programme.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM
The Orchestra team are seeking a dedicated and experienced orchestra administrator, with a keen eye for detail. The person will be responsible for the day‑to‑day administration for the orchestra team including finances, and support the Orchestra Personnel Manager with fixing. They will also be asked to run rehearsals and concerts when necessary. Due to the nature of the role, the Orchestra Coordinator will sometimes need to travel across the UK and work evenings and weekends as dictated by the Orchestra’s performance schedule.
YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPACT
- Embody and promote BBC Values: Audiences, Creativity, Trust, Respect, Accountability and One BBC.
- Finance & Payments: Manage extra and deputy payments and maintain the team finance tracker, and support DIB reporting for extras and deputies.
- Personnel Administration: Maintain personnel records including salaries, leave, and stepping‑up arrangements and update personnel on travel expense claims.
- Operational Support & Fixing: Support the Orchestra Personnel Manager with scheduling ('fixing'), including emergency cover and occasional out‑of‑hours support.
- Rehearsals, Recordings & Concerts: Run orchestra rehearsals and recordings, and provide concert support as required.
- Logistics, Travel & Events: Coordinate hotel bookings, travel (rail/coach), and tour documentation and organise venue logistics including parking, security lists, and circulation of orchestra/personnel lists.
- Auditions & Instruments: Manage audition processes and support trial booking administration and oversee instrument insurance renewals and handle related queries/claims.
YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:
- Previous experience of working in orchestral administration.
- Good organisational skills with the ability to work under pressure.
- Pay meticulous attention to detail with a good level of numeracy.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of orchestral music and the components of an orchestra.
DESIRABLE:
- Experience of working with OPAS (or similar orchestra administration software).
- Experience of working with SAP and ACON (or similar).
- Ability to read music and understand orchestrations.
- Some orchestra fixing experience would be beneficial.
This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.
We welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio‑economic background, religion and/or belief.
We are a disability confident employer. If you need to discuss adjustments or access requirements for the interview process, or to carry out this role, please contact us via email: reasonable.adjustments@bbc.co.uk
Orchestra Coordinator, BBCCO employer: BBC Group and Public Services
Joining the BBC Concert Orchestra as an Orchestra Coordinator means becoming part of a vibrant and creative team dedicated to delivering exceptional musical experiences. Located in the heart of London, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that values flexibility, diversity, and professional growth, alongside opportunities to engage with renowned conductors and participate in innovative community activities. With competitive salaries and a commitment to employee well-being, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to the arts while developing your career in a prestigious environment.
Contact Details:
BBC Group and Public Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Orchestra Coordinator, BBCCO
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the orchestral world, whether it's through LinkedIn or at events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the BBC Concert Orchestra and its recent projects. Show us that you're not just passionate about music but also understand the unique role of the orchestra in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As an Orchestra Coordinator, you'll need to interact with various stakeholders. Role-play common scenarios with friends to boost your confidence and clarity.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining the team and ready to embrace the BBC's values.
We think you need these skills to ace Orchestra Coordinator, BBCCO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music:When you're writing your application, let your love for orchestral music shine through! Mention any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your enthusiasm and understanding of the orchestral world.
Be Detail-Oriented:Since this role requires a keen eye for detail, make sure your application is free from typos and errors. Double-check everything before you hit submit – we want to see that you can manage the nitty-gritty!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your cover letter and supporting documents to reflect how your skills match the specific requirements of the Orchestra Coordinator role. We love seeing candidates who put in the effort!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications made online, so make sure to click on the APPLY NOW button on our website. It’s the easiest way to get your application in front of us, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at BBC Group and Public Services
✨Know Your Orchestra
Familiarise yourself with the BBC Concert Orchestra's recent performances and projects. Understanding their repertoire and mission will help you connect your experience to their needs during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your organisational abilities, especially under pressure. Discuss specific instances where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or events, as this role requires juggling various responsibilities.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since the role demands meticulous attention to detail, be ready to discuss how you've ensured accuracy in previous roles. Bring up any experiences with finance tracking or personnel administration to showcase your skills.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the orchestra's future projects or their approach to community engagement. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.