At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver live music on hospital wards to enhance patient wellbeing and create joyful experiences.
- Company: North Bristol NHS Trust & OPUS Music CIC, committed to innovative music-making in healthcare.
- Benefits: Earn £40 per session, with training and mentoring provided to develop your skills.
- Other info: Join a vibrant team and contribute to the local music scene while gaining valuable experience.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives through the power of music in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced musicians with a passion for using music in healthcare settings.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
North Bristol NHS Trust & OPUS Music CIC are collaborating to develop a local approach to music-making on the wards at Southmead Hospital. Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for music-making (with instrument &/or voice) on the day of the interview. This is a Freelance role paid on a per session basis at the rate of £40ph/£300 per day/£150 per half day, with expenses paid at a rate of £10 per in person session. Trainees recruited must attend all training dates. Successful recruitment to this pilot does not guarantee future paid opportunities outside commitments outlined below.
Training schedule:
- 6 × 2‑hour online training sessions
- 2 × 7.5‑hour days of in‑person training
- 10 × 2.5‑hour sessions of in‑person, hospital‑based practice (including preparation & reflection)
- 5 × 1‑hour online mentoring sessions
We are recruiting experienced musicians curious about using music in a hospital setting to support people’s wellbeing. Successful applicants will join a structured training pathway to develop the skills and confidence needed to work safely & effectively within the Trust’s clinical spaces. We are committed to supporting the region’s vibrant music scene & reducing environmental impact. We are looking for musicians who can easily commute to North Bristol NHS Trust in a sustainable way. While we welcome all applications, we will prioritise musicians based in the region to help foster opportunities in an area where they are often limited.
Responsibilities:
As a Healthcare Musician, you will deliver live music on hospital wards, responding to the needs, preferences and energy of patients, families and staff. You will initiate and shape musical interactions that may involve listening, improvising, singing, playing familiar songs or co‑creating new music. Sessions may take place at the bedside, in shared bays or communal ward spaces. You will build professional relationships with ward staff and work in line with all Trust policies, including infection prevention, safeguarding and confidentiality. Healthcare Musicians will use their skills to deliver up to ten responsive music sessions on hospital wards between September 2026 and February 2027. All Healthcare Musicians will complete mandatory Trust training and always adhere to health and safety guidance. They will engage in ongoing reflection and professional development to ensure safe, compassionate and high‑quality practice on the wards.
Equality & Diversity: North Bristol NHS Trust values all people as individuals. We aim to be an anti‑discriminatory organisation and are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We welcome applicants from all underrepresented groups.
Additional Information: This training and mentoring will be delivered by OPUS Music CIC as part of a partnership with Fresh Arts, partly funded by Arts Council England. This pilot project is also funded by donations to Southmead Hospital Charity.
Healthcare Musician | North Bristol NHS Trust employer: Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
North Bristol NHS Trust is an exceptional employer for Healthcare Musicians, offering a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful music-making that enhances patient wellbeing within a supportive and collaborative environment. With a commitment to professional development through structured training and mentoring, employees can grow their skills while contributing to the vibrant local music scene. The Trust values diversity and sustainability, making it an attractive workplace for musicians eager to make a positive impact in their community.
Contact Details:
Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Healthcare Musician | North Bristol NHS Trust
✨Tip Number 1
Get ready to showcase your musical skills! Since you'll be performing on the day of the interview, pick a couple of pieces that really highlight your strengths. Make sure you can adapt them to fit the vibe of a hospital setting.
✨Tip Number 2
Do your homework on North Bristol NHS Trust and OPUS Music CIC. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect your passion for music with their goals, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with other musicians in the area! Join local music groups or forums to share experiences and tips. You never know who might have insights about working in healthcare settings or even opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re all about supporting local talent, so don’t hesitate to show us what makes you unique as a Healthcare Musician.
We think you need these skills to ace Healthcare Musician | North Bristol NHS Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music:Let us see your love for music shine through in your application! Share your experiences and how you believe music can positively impact patients' wellbeing. This is your chance to connect with our mission!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the role of a Healthcare Musician. We want to know how your background makes you a perfect fit for this unique position.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at North Bristol NHS Trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
✨Showcase Your Musical Skills
Since you'll be making music during the interview, make sure to bring your instrument and prepare a few pieces that highlight your versatility. Think about how you can adapt your performance to different settings and audiences, as this will be key in a hospital environment.
✨Understand the Role's Impact
Familiarise yourself with how music can support patient wellbeing. Research the benefits of music therapy in healthcare settings and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to this initiative. Showing that you understand the role's significance will impress the interviewers.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, don’t just wait for questions—engage with the panel. Ask them about their experiences with music in the hospital and how they envision the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest and willingness to collaborate.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Be ready for practical scenarios where you might need to improvise or respond to specific patient needs. Think about how you would approach different situations, such as a patient who is anxious or one who is unresponsive. This will demonstrate your adaptability and creativity.
