At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Central Band, delivering impactful performances for commemorative and ceremonial events.
- Company: Join the Royal British Legion, a leading Armed Forces charity making a difference.
- Benefits: 28 days paid holiday, flexible working, generous pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Remote work with occasional travel; commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of music in a respected organisation while honouring military traditions.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Director of Music in high-profile musical environments.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
Music plays a unique and powerful role within the Royal British Legion’s Membership community, bringing people together through remembrance, ceremony and shared experience. As Director of Music, you will lead the musical direction of the Central Band of the Royal British Legion, delivering performances that sit at the heart of some of the organisation’s most important commemorative, ceremonial and membership events. From the Festival of Remembrance and Annual Conference to prestigious public performances and fundraising occasions, this is an opportunity to take ownership of a highly respected musical programme that has genuine national visibility and impact.
Working within the Membership, Armed Forces and Community Engagement Directorate, we are looking for an experienced and inspiring musical leader who can combine artistic excellence with strong relationship management and operational oversight. You will bring proven experience operating at Director of Music level within a major military, ceremonial or similarly high-profile musical environment, alongside an expert understanding of military and classical repertoire, liturgical music and wider contemporary performance styles.
Just as importantly, you will be someone who can build trusted relationships across the communities, supporting RBL licensed bands, advising on musical activities and working collaboratively with internal volunteer and staff teams, external stakeholders and military partners both in the UK and internationally. This role offers the opportunity to shape and influence the future of music across the RBL communities while respecting the traditions and standards that make the Royal British Legion’s musical heritage so distinctive.
Alongside leading the Central Band, you will play a key role in supporting membership and community engagement, ceremonial activity and events across the organisation. We are seeking someone with positive presence, passion and credibility; a confident leader who can inspire musicians, uphold exceptional performance standards and deliver memorable experiences that reflect our charity’s ethos and values to widen awareness and community participation in RBL events.
You will be contracted to your home address, and you will perform most of your work remotely there, with occasional travel (including for monthly team meetings). Employee benefits include:
- 28 days paid holiday pro rata (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Enhanced paid maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Generous pension contributions, with Employer contributions ranging from 6% to 10%
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!
For more detailed information about the role, please see the Vacancy Information Pack attached to our direct advert. Our teams take a personalised approach to shortlisting, which is carried out without the use of AI and is based on the evidence provided in your application against the essential and desirable criteria in the Person Specification. RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.
As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interview schemes for candidates who declare an Armed Forces connection and/or a disability. However, candidates are only eligible for this scheme if their application clearly demonstrates that they meet all of the essential criteria listed in the Person Specification for the role.
Interview Dates: W/C 15th June 2026 these will be face to face at our Head Office, Haig House which is based in London Bridge. We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role(s). Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
If you require the job advert or job description in an alternative format, please contact 0808 802 8080.
Director of Music in London employer: Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead the Central Band and shape the musical direction of a respected charity that plays a vital role in commemorating and supporting the Armed Forces community. With a commitment to employee development, generous benefits including enhanced leave and pension contributions, and a flexible working environment, we foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, ensuring that every team member can thrive while making a meaningful impact on society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Music in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the music and military communities. Attend events, engage on social media, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for music and the Royal British Legion's mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your past performances and projects that highlight your leadership and musical direction. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your fit for the Director of Music role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! When you get the chance to meet with decision-makers, be ready to articulate your vision for the Central Band and how you can enhance the RBL’s musical heritage. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Music in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music:When writing your application, let your love for music shine through! Share your experiences and how they connect to the role of Director of Music. We want to see your enthusiasm for leading a prestigious musical programme.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in military or ceremonial music. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique context of our work, so be specific about how your background aligns with our mission.
Highlight Relationship Management Skills:Since this role involves building trusted relationships, don’t forget to mention your experience in managing teams and collaborating with various stakeholders. We value strong interpersonal skills, so share examples that showcase your ability to inspire and lead.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal British Legion
✨Know Your Repertoire
Make sure you have a solid understanding of military and classical repertoire, as well as liturgical music and contemporary styles. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the musical direction of the Central Band and how you can enhance their performances.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Music, you'll need to inspire and lead musicians effectively. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully managed teams or projects, and be ready to share these during the interview to demonstrate your leadership style.
✨Build Relationships
This role requires strong relationship management skills. Prepare to discuss how you've built trusted relationships in previous roles, especially with stakeholders and community members. Highlight any collaborative projects that showcase your ability to work with diverse groups.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Community Engagement
The Royal British Legion values community participation. Be ready to talk about your commitment to engaging with communities through music. Share any initiatives you've led or been part of that reflect your dedication to making a positive impact through musical activities.
