Nonclassical AiR (Artist in Residence)
Nonclassical Closing date: Wed, 13 May 2026
- Part time
- Under £10K
- Apply now
Fri, 24 Apr 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
Are you a UK-based composer working within the contemporary classical, experimental or electronic music sphere?
We're looking for four early-career composers to join nonclassical AiR (Artists in Residence), our long-running artist development programme supporting new voices in contemporary music. At least one place will be reserved for an artist without formal classical training or Western notation experience.
Since launching in 2016, the programme has supported composers including Nneka Cummins, Blasio Kavuma, Nwakke, Laurence Osborn and Atefeh Einali, with alumni going on to receive Ivor Novello and RPS Awards, major commissions including BBC Proms and LA Phil, and opportunities with publishers and international festivals.
Selected artists will receive:
£1,000 commission for a new work
a track release on our Outside the Lines digital EP
mentoring with an artist of your choice
professional career coaching
tailored training sessions and industry insight
Applications are open now until 11 May, 10am BST. For more info and how to apply, please visit https://www.nonclassical.co.uk/nonclassical-artist-in-residence
Job Requirements
Composers over 18.
UK-based composers.
Early-career composers (this does not necessarily equate with age).
Composers who do not have a recording or publishing contract.
Composers who will not be in formal education (undergraduate or postgraduate, including practice-based PhD) for the duration of the scheme.
Artists displaying exceptional ability and potential from any genre and/or musical background who can work with notated music - this does not have to be traditional Western musical notation, and may include practices such as graphic notation, text instruction scores or workflow from a DAW, in order to collaborate with other musicians (with the potential for added notation support).
Candidates whose career and artistic development would significantly benefit from this opportunity.
At least one of the four spaces on the programme will be ringfenced for an artist with limited to no experience
Job Responsibilities
In the first year of the scheme, the four artists will:
Receive a £1,000 fee to write a piece for soloist or collaborate with an ensemble on a curated concert.
Record a track for our label's Outside the Lines digital EP compilation.
Meet with a dedicated mentor of your choice.
Engage with a qualified career coach to shape goals and provide a confidential space to help overcome any challenges.
Undertake a bespoke package of professional training sessions based on goals and skills gaps.
Subject to successful fundraising, in the second year of the programme selected artists will:
Develop a short piece for ensemble, remunerated at Musicians Union commission rates, based on a baroque dance form for Vache Baroque, with workshop time to test out ideas.
Contribute to Nonclassical's programme of curated events.
Continue mentoring, coaching and professional development sessions to support both creative and professional development.
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Nonclassical AiR (Artist in Residence)
- Salary: Under £10K
- Hours: Part time
- Artform: Music
- Role: Creative
- Contract: Temporary
- Closing date: Wed, 13 May 2026
- Location: UK-wide
How to Apply
Apply via our website: https://www.nonclassical.co.uk/nonclassical-artist-in-residence
About Nonclassical
nonclassical is a music promoter, record label and events producer presenting new classical, experimental and electronic music in innovative ways to reach diverse audiences. Nonclassical develops, produces and promotes innovative music with an artist-led approach, supporting artists’ development through our platforms and programmes.