At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the ENO Orchestra as Co-Principal Viola, performing in a dynamic and diverse musical environment.
- Company: Award-winning English National Opera, known for its rich repertoire and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for outreach, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while collaborating with talented musicians and artists.
- Qualifications: Exceptional viola skills, ensemble experience, and a passion for equity and diversity.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with support for underrepresented groups and excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 34136 - 34136 £ per year.
Location: London and other locations as required
Salary: £34,136.98 per annum
Closing date: Applications must be received by Mon 9 February 10.00am
Contract: Permanent, 7-month yearly contract
The award-winning ENO Orchestra is renowned for the versatility of its repertoire spanning four centuries, providing the musical landscape and emotion for ENO productions. We are seeking a dedicated musician to join the ENO orchestra in the position of Co-Principal Viola.
Requirements:
- Exceptional instrumental ability as a professional cello player with significant experience performing in a symphonic or opera orchestra
- Strong ensemble skills, with the ability to maintain artistic consistency across performances
- Experience or willingness to engage in Outreach (Engage), and Development activities as a representative of the Orchestra
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across departments and with visiting artists and conductors
- Understanding of, and commitment to upholding, ENO's Values including equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace
Please see our recruitment pack for further details. To apply, please send over your CV and Cover Letter detailing your interest and suitability for the role, details of your right to work status in the UK and your availability on the proposed audition dates to hook@englishnationalopera.co.uk by 10am on Monday 9 February 2026. Please also submit our anonymous Equality and Diversity Form.
Audition Dates: w/c 16 & 23 March 2026
Audition packs will be sent to shortlisted applicants. English National Opera is an Equal Opportunities employer, and we strive to create an inclusive working environment that reflects the diverse communities we serve. As we work to address underrepresentation in our workforce, English National Opera particularly encourages potential candidates from underrepresented groups and communities to apply, including those from global majority backgrounds and/or with protected characteristics, including race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment and religion and belief. We will provide appropriate support for candidates with access requirements if they identify as disabled. This includes during the application process and through candidate assessment stages.
Co-Principal Viola employer: ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA
Contact Detail:
ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Co-Principal Viola
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the ENO Orchestra and its values! Research their past performances and outreach activities. This will help you connect your experience with what they stand for during auditions.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your ensemble skills! Since collaboration is key, consider playing with friends or joining local orchestras to sharpen your ability to blend and maintain artistic consistency.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the audition dates well in advance. Make sure you’re comfortable with the repertoire and can showcase your exceptional instrumental ability. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the ENO family.
We think you need these skills to ace Co-Principal Viola
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure your CV highlights your exceptional instrumental ability and any relevant experience in symphonic or opera orchestras. We want to see what makes you stand out as a Co-Principal Viola!
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the role and how your skills align with ENO's values. Don’t forget to mention your commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion – it’s super important to us!
Be Clear About Your Availability: When you apply, let us know your availability for the audition dates. This helps us plan better and shows that you're organised and ready to jump in!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA
✨Know Your Repertoire
Familiarise yourself with the ENO Orchestra's repertoire, especially pieces that feature the viola. Being able to discuss specific works and your experience with them will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Ensemble Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Think of examples from past performances where you maintained artistic consistency and worked well with other musicians. This will highlight your strong ensemble skills.
✨Engage with Outreach Activities
Be ready to discuss your experience or willingness to participate in outreach and development activities. Show how you can represent the orchestra positively and engage with the community, aligning with ENO's values.
✨Emphasise Interpersonal Skills
Think about times when you've collaborated with conductors or visiting artists. Highlight your excellent interpersonal skills and how they contribute to a harmonious working environment, which is crucial for this role.