At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Timpani section and maintain high musical standards.
- Company: Join the prestigious BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in Glasgow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary in line with Musician Union Agreements.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor young talent and collaborate with renowned conductors.
- Why this job: Be part of Scotland's leading orchestra and inspire creativity.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience as Section Principal Timpani and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent (continuing)
DEPARTMENT: BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra
LOCATION: City Halls, Glasgow
SALARY: In accordance with Musician Union Agreements
PLEASE NOTE: In order to apply for this position, Candidates will need to register on Musicalchairs and apply via the 'Apply via musicalchairs’ button to complete a short information form. The deadline to complete the form on Musicalchairs is MONDAY 7TH DECEMBER 2026.
THE BBC SCOTTISH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
We have an exciting opportunity for a Section Principal Timpani to join the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. As Scotland’s national broadcasting orchestra, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra has been performing for audiences across Scotland, the UK and internationally since 1935. The orchestra’s live performances are regularly broadcast on BBC Radio 3, Radio Scotland and Sounds, as well as BBC Television and iPlayer.
Opening eyes and ears with ambitious repertoire beyond any benchmark, the BBC SSO is Scotland’s leading champion of new music. Across nine decades, it has commissioned orchestral music by the most original voices of its time and hosts its annual Tectonics Festival of new and experimental music each spring alongside its Creative Partner Ilan Volkov. The orchestra supports young musical talent in BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Classical Musician competition.
Ryan Wigglesworth began his tenure as Chief Conductor in September 2022. Regularly performing at the BBC Proms and Edinburgh International Festival, the orchestra is a recipient of a Royal Philharmonic Society Award and four Gramophone Awards.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPACT
- Sit as Section Principal, leading the Timpani section.
- Maintain the high standard of professional playing and musical and artistic excellence required by the Orchestra.
- Familiarise oneself with the relevant parts, including any solos, in advance of the first rehearsal and performances.
- Support professionally any Leaders and Conductors engaged by the Orchestra.
- Take responsibility for the style, intonation, balance, ensemble, rhythm and preparation of the section in conjunction with Leaders and the Chief Conductor.
- Lead and manage the section effectively, and to share responsibility with the management for the players’ performance.
- Assist and consult on the compilation of the list of freelance musicians in their section.
- Foster an environment in which artistic excellence flourishes.
YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:
- Extensive experience as Section Principal Timpani playing solos and full orchestra repertoire to the highest standards.
- Effective and Committed Team leader, sharing responsibility with the management for players’ performance.
- Strong leadership and some experience in delivery of feedback.
- To maintain artistic excellence and encourage in others.
- To work collaboratively with colleagues, management and conductors.
APPLICATIONS MUST BE VIA THE MUSICALCHAIRS WEBSITE - PLEASE CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK FOR FULL DETAILS ON HOW TO APPLY AND AUDITIONS INSTRUCTIONS:
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: MONDAY 7TH DECEMBER 2026.
Section Principal Timpani, BBCSSO employer: British Broadcasting Corporation
Joining BBC Radio Leeds as a Senior Content Producer offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic and creative team dedicated to engaging local audiences through innovative storytelling. With a strong focus on personal and professional growth, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that values flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their role. Located in the vibrant city of Leeds, employees benefit from a rich cultural environment while contributing to meaningful content that resonates with the community.
Contact Details:
British Broadcasting Corporation Recruitment Team
