Paraorchestra is a fearless collective of disabled and non-disabled musicians. We collaborate across genres and artforms and challenge outdated ideas about who orchestral music is ‘for’, who gets to experience it, and who gets to play it.
We are looking for disabled, Deaf and neurodivergent professional-level musicians based in the UK to join our ensemble. You don’t have to already be working as a professional musician – you may be leaving education, for example – but you must be able to play to a high standard.
We recognise that musicians who are disabled face additional barriers in their careers and in the pursuit of their creative practice. We’re working to change this, and we do this across two main areas:
Our artistic approach to new work and touring projects. Led by our Artistic Director Charles Hazlewood we create a huge range of bold, original contemporary orchestral work, collaborating across artforms and genres to create unforgettable live experiences.
We have taken groundbreaking immersive shows to the Bristol Beacon – where we are proudly associate artists – the Southbank Centre, and across the world to venues such as the Lincoln Center in New York City and Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw. We have played main stages at Glastonbury Festival, paraded through city streets and ventured as far away as Hong Kong and Perth, Australia. In 2025 we were awarded ‘Best Ensemble’ at the Royal Philharmonic Society,
“Paraorchestra’s immersive performance of Music for 18 Musicians was immaculate and exhilarating”
– The Guardian, September 2026
Our artist development programme Modulate. We work with disabled members of our orchestra to fulfill their creative ambitions. Offering one-to-one support, small project grants, residencies and commissions we support musicians and composers to develop their creative practice in order to take up space as artists and leaders in their own right.
Across all these contexts, we want musicians to perform at their very best regardless of access requirements. On each of our projects, we have a person-centred approach to considering the best ways to do this.
- Identify as disabled, Deaf, and/ or neurodivergent
- Be 18 years old or over – there is no upper age limit
- Perform music to a professional level
- Be a resident in the UK
At Paraorchestra we take an individual approach to access, recognising that identity is multifaceted and intersectional. We use the Social Model of Disability to guide our approach to access.
You don’t have to already be working as a professional musician – you may be leaving education, for example – but you must be able to play to a high standard.
Key Dates
Applications open on Monday 19th October 2026
Applications close on Monday 30th November 2026 at 10am
Auditions will be held in Bristol on Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th February 2027
If you or anyone you know has any questions not covered in the information pack and FAQs document they can get in touch with us via our artistdevelopment@paraorchestra.com email address.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The 2026 Paraorchestra Musician Callout is open now employer: Sound and Music
Sound and Music is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant city of London, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. As a Development Manager, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through fundraising and engagement initiatives, while benefiting from professional growth opportunities and a supportive team environment. With a commitment to storytelling and relationship-building, you'll thrive in a role that not only enhances your skills but also contributes to the arts community.
