At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Central Band, delivering impactful performances at key commemorative events.
- Company: Join the Royal British Legion, a leading Armed Forces charity making a difference.
- Benefits: 28 days paid holiday, flexible working options, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Remote work with occasional travel; commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of music in a respected organisation with national visibility.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Director of Music in a high-profile musical environment.
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!
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).
Director of Music employer: The 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 growth, flexible working options, and a supportive work culture, you will enjoy generous benefits including enhanced leave, pension contributions, and access to professional development courses, all while making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have served our nation. Join us in London Bridge, where your passion for music can inspire and engage communities across the UK and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Music
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow musicians, industry contacts, and even those in the military community. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights into opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or collaborators, let your enthusiasm for music and the role shine through. Share your vision for how you can contribute to the Royal British Legion's musical heritage.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, past performances, and community engagement efforts. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your commitment to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the amazing work at the Royal British Legion.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Music
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the role and how your experience fits in.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Don’t just send us a generic CV! Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the Director of Music role. Show us how your background in military or ceremonial music makes you the perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Passion for Music:We want to see your enthusiasm for music and community engagement. Share examples of how you’ve inspired others through music or led successful projects. Let your passion shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application via our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us.
How to prepare for a job interview at The 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. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully managed teams or projects, and be ready to share these stories during the interview to demonstrate your leadership style and effectiveness.
✨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 ideas on how you would promote awareness and participation in RBL events, reflecting the charity's ethos and values.
