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- Tasks: Perform as Sub-Principal Viola with the Royal Northern Sinfonia, showcasing your talent in auditions.
- Company: Join the Royal Northern Sinfonia, a leading ensemble based at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £38,255 and opportunities for paid work and chamber music.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant musical community and contribute to impactful performances.
- Qualifications: Experience in orchestral performance and proficiency in viola required.
- Other info: Audition process includes digital submissions and live performances; apply by 5 September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 45000 £ per year.
Deadline for applications: 17.00 on Friday 05 September 2025
Department & Team: Royal Northern Sinfonia & Classical Team
Location: The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
Working Hours: Members of Royal Northern Sinfonia work in line with the North Music Trust / Musicians’ Union agreement
https://musiciansunion.org.uk/working-performing/orchestral-work/orchestral-agreements-and-rates-or-pay/orchestral-agreements/royal-northern-sinfonia
Position in organisation and starting salary: Sub Principal Viola £38,255 (SCP 1)
Reports to: Senior Orchestra & Personnel Manager
Works in conjunction with: Royal Northern Sinfonia musicians and the Classical Team
Stage One – Digital Submission Closing date: 17.00 on Friday 05 September 2025
Please submit a video recording which contains the following excerpts by 17.00 on Friday 05 September 2025:
Excerpts:
Benjamin BrittenFrank Bridge Variations: March
Excerpts for Stage One can be found in the attachment above.
Your submission needs to be recorded live, in one take and without any editing. Please note the panel will only hear the audio of your submission.
We will aim to notify successful candidates from Stage One by the end of Friday 12September 2025 at the latest.
Stage Two – In Person Live Audition – Monday 20 October 2025
Your audition will take place at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, St Mary’s Square, Gateshead, NE8 2JRand will consist of two parts:
Part A: A screened audition consisting of the first movement of a Classical Concerto (exposition only) and a contrasting piece of your own choice.
An accompanist will be provided but do bring your own if you wish.
Part B: An un-screened audition consisting of orchestral excerpts and a pre-selected movement of chamber music with members of the panel. The repertoire for Stage Two, Part B is listed below.
Excerpts
Benjamin BrittenFrank Bridge Variations: March
Tchaikovsky Serenade for Strings: mvt 1, D – F, and mvt 3, B.65 – 90 (Letter C)
Richard Strauss Metamorphosen: (Viola 3) b.417 – 429, (Viola 4) beginning to b.52,
Chamber Music
We will aim to notify successful candidates from Stage Two by the end of Friday 24 October 2025 with candidates being asked to provide their availability for Stage Three by Friday 31 October 2025.
Stage 3: Trial (Paid work, Chamber Music, and Interview)
Dates from November 2025 onwards
The final stage in the recruitment process will involve the successful candidates undertaking paid work with the orchestra in line with the North Music Trust/Musicians’ Union Freelance Agreement.
For Sub-Principal positions this will consist of three patches of paid work, with one patch centred around our core classical repertoire conducted by Music Director Dinis Sousa. You’ll also take part in a chamber music rehearsal with members of the panel and an interview with the Leader (or appropriate Section Leaders) and the Senior Orchestra & Personnel Manager.
An additional patch of work may be offered to candidates if the panel fail to reach a consensus.
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music
Location
North East
Contract Type
Permanent, Full-Time
Apply by
Fri 5 Sep, 2025
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Sub-Principal Viola employer: Black Lives in Musi
Contact Detail:
Black Lives in Musi Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sub-Principal Viola
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific excerpts required for the audition. Practising these pieces thoroughly will not only enhance your performance but also demonstrate your commitment and preparation to the panel.
✨Tip Number 2
Consider recording your practice sessions to evaluate your performance. This will help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your final submission is polished and professional.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former members of the Royal Northern Sinfonia. They can provide valuable insights into the audition process and what the panel may be looking for in a Sub-Principal Viola.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the live audition by rehearsing with an accompanist. This will help you get comfortable with the dynamics of performing alongside another musician, which is crucial for the audition's success.
We think you need these skills to ace Sub-Principal Viola
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Requirements: Carefully read the job description for the Sub-Principal Viola position. Make sure you understand the specific excerpts required for the video submission and the details of the audition process.
Prepare Your Video Submission: Record your video submission in one take, ensuring that it captures the required excerpts clearly. Pay attention to audio quality, as the panel will only hear the audio. Practice thoroughly to ensure a confident performance.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that highlights your experience, skills, and passion for music. Tailor it specifically to the Sub-Principal Viola role, mentioning your familiarity with the required repertoire and your ability to work collaboratively within an orchestra.
Double-Check Your Application: Before submitting your application, review all documents and recordings to ensure everything is complete and meets the requirements. Pay special attention to the deadline and make sure your submission is sent well in advance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Black Lives in Musi
✨Prepare Your Repertoire
Make sure you are well-versed in the excerpts required for both the digital submission and the live audition. Practise them thoroughly, focusing on precision and expression, as these will be key to showcasing your skills.
✨Know Your Accompanist
If you choose to bring your own accompanist, ensure that you have rehearsed together beforehand. Familiarity with each other's playing styles can make a significant difference during the audition.
✨Understand the Panel's Expectations
Research the Royal Northern Sinfonia and their repertoire. Understanding their style and what they value in musicians can help you tailor your performance to meet their expectations.
✨Be Ready for the Interview
During the final stage, you'll have an interview with the panel. Prepare to discuss your musical journey, your approach to collaboration, and how you can contribute to the orchestra's success. Be genuine and let your passion for music shine through.
