Composer Course Designer & Teacher
CoMA (Contemporary Music for All) Closing date: Mon, 11 May 2026
- Part time
- Under £10K
- Apply now
Thu, 30 Apr 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
CoMA is seeking to appoint an experienced Composer Facilitator to design a new composition course, aimed at beginner and early-stage composers. The selected candidate will be responsible for designing and delivering a 10-week course, teaching basic composition skills and techniques required to develop a successful solo or ensemble piece for amateur instrumentalists and/or vocalists.
The development of this course is in response to skill development requests from our extensive community of emerging composers whom CoMA supports, and is intended to provide them with a structured environment for skill development and a space for peer support. We are looking for a candidate who is passionate about teaching composition, and possesses extensive experience in both music course design and facilitation.
The role is an exciting opportunity to make an impact on the vibrant UK-wide arts community, and to contribute significantly to the new music landscape of the UK. CoMA operates under a collaborative leadership model, encouraging all permanent and freelance employees to suggest ideas and be part of making meaningful sector change.
This is a freelance role, offering:
- A flat fee of £1,200 to cover the course design time, preparation of course materials and meetings (c.50 hrs worked flexibly from Jun-Sep)
- Preparation rate of £40 x 10 online teaching sessions (approx 1 hr/session)
- Facilitator fee of £150 x 10 online teaching sessions (each 2.5 hours, weekly Oct-Dec, time tba)
Timeline
Monday 11 May, 11.59pm: Application deadline
Tuesday 26 May: Interviews
June - Sept: Composer leads on design of new course, in consultation with the CoMA team
Oct - Dec: Delivery of 10 week course
Jan 2027: Evaluation meeting with CoMA team to reflect on course design and delivery.
We actively encourage applicants from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, including those from the Global Majority, d/Deaf and Disabled people, working-class backgrounds and LGBTQ+ people.
Job Requirements
Essential:
- At least 6 years' experience composing at a professional level
- University degree in music (bachelor's degree at a minimum) or equivalent
- Be UK-based
- Demonstrable experience in course design
- 3+ years' experience in composition teaching
- Experience supporting students in both individual and group settings
Desirable:
- Experience working in community or educational settings, ideally with amateur musicians
- Extensive experience composing in 5-line notation
- Experience working with standard notation software (Eg. Sibelius, Finale or Dorico)
- Experience creating or teaching with music creation technique alternatives to 5-line notation, such as graphic scores and improvisation
- Passion and commitment for the arts and their transformative impact and interest in opening access to community arts initiatives
- Knowledge and experience of the arts sector and community arts field
- Knowledge of and love for contemporary classical music
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Composer Course Designer & Teacher
- Salary: Under £10K
- Hours: Part time
- Artform: Music
- Role: Teaching
- Contract: Contract
- Closing date: Mon, 11 May 2026
- Location: UK-wide
How to Apply
Please email the following to [email protected]:
- 2 contrasting compositions, written by the applicant, ideally a score and recording
- Cover letter (max 1 page) or video/audio (max 3 minutes) explaining your suitability and interest in the role
- CV demonstrating your recent and relevant experience (max 2 pages)
- CoMA Equal Opportunities Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScF0Nglo95QsxJQiC21NvJ-Q3SQ7EeI_UP-XsDoMTzaYE87Ew/viewform
You are welcome to submit your application as a video. Please ensure that all videos submitted do not require a password. If you encounter any difficulties completing your application or would like to apply using a different format, please contact Tamara Kohler (CoMA CEO) at [email protected].
Application deadline: Monday 11 May 2026 11.59pm
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview in-person (London) or online on Tuesday 26 May 2026.
If you have any questions, please email Tamara Kohler (CoMA CEO)
- Contact name: Tamara Kohler
- Contact email: [email protected]
About CoMA (Contemporary Music for All)
CoMA is a participatory new music organisation, fostering a culture of musical creativity and inclusive collaboration throughout communities across the UK and beyond.