BSO Assistant Orchestra Manager

BSO Assistant Orchestra Manager

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Closing date: Fri, 13 Nov 2026

Artform: Music
Role: Creative
Contract: Permanent
South West

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

Working closely with the Orchestra Manager, the Assistant Orchestra Manager will assist in the management of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s contracted and freelance musicians. You will also be ensuring the smooth running some of BSO’s busy schedule of concerts, rehearsals and recordings.

Job Description

Key relationships
BSO Concerts Team, Orchestral musicians, conductors and soloists, backstage staff at performance venues, BSO Participate Team, Head of Human Resources

Main responsibilities
Engage freelance musicians in consultation with the Orchestra Manager and orchestra principals.
Alongside the Orchestra Manager, be the first point of contact for contract and freelance musicians, including being on call for short notice fixing.
Work closely with the orchestra manager to ensure continuous orchestra management cover, including covering periods to enable each other to have quality time off from the fixing mobile phones.
Attend and ensure the smooth running of orchestra calls.
Calculate payments for freelance players on a weekly basis, providing payment information to the Finance Department.
Particular responsibility for fixing and concert duty for smaller ensemble concerts, working closely with the BSO's Participation Department.
Deputise for the Orchestra Manager. This could involve booking freelancers to cover sickness and taking a leading role within the team at rehearsals and concerts when problems arise.

Further responsibilities
Rehearsal and Concert Duties
Regularly manage the start and running of concerts independently (concert duties are shared with the Orchestra Manager).
For BSO's digital concerts coordinate with the producer, presenter, front of house staff, digital team and stage managers to ensure a great concert experience both in the hall and online.
Assist conductors and soloists during rehearsals and concerts. Discuss rehearsal orders with conductors and efficiently communicate rehearsal plans to the orchestra.
Work closely with stage managers and local venue staff to communicate issues promptly and efficiently.
Occasionally, assist the stage managers with stage moves during rehearsals and concerts.
When required, transport small amounts of equipment (music stands, cushions, etc.) for smaller ensemble concerts.

Job Requirements

Required Experience and Skills
Experience of working with a professional orchestra or in a creative/performing arts organisation (desirable)
Good knowledge of orchestral repertoire
Consistent accuracy and attention to detail
Excellent communication skills, patience and empathy are required, as is a sense of humour
Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage conflicting priorities
Confident written and spoken communicator with a range of people and personalities
Excellent computer/digital skills
Confident driver, to be able to drive yourself in the company estate cars to and from concerts in our out-of-town venues.
Personal Attributes
Hardworking with an enthusiasm for working with music and with people
Confident working independently and taking charge to manage difficult situations
Proven organisational skills with an ability to prioritise workload
Able to work flexibly and responsively in live situations

Current clean UK drivers license

Job Responsibilities

Administration
Assist the Orchestra Manager and section principals in devising and maintaining fixing lists.
Assist with freelance personnel administration such as sending schedules and responding to queries.
Assist the Orchestra Manager with the administration of contract players, such as managing leave requests and checking sitting-up forms.
Assist the Orchestra Manager with annual budgeting of freelance costs.
Carry out right to work checks on freelance musicians.
Attend Operational Planning meetings.
Use the BSO's data management system, Orchestra Planning and Administration System (OPAS), to monitor orchestra attendance.
Operate with full regard for BSO company policy and the BSO/MU agreements.
Health and Safety
Have responsibility for carrying out venue risk assessments at rehearsal and concert venues and ensure that they are regularly updated.

Useful Links

Job Overview

  • Job Title: BSO Assistant Orchestra Manager
  • Salary: £25k-£30k
  • Hours: Full time
  • Artform: Music
  • Role: Creative
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Closing date: Fri, 13 Nov 2026
  • Location:
    South West
    | view on Google Maps

Job: BSO Assistant Orchestra Manager

Job: BSO Assistant Orchestra Manager

Organisation: Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

Postcode: BH15 1UF

How to Apply

Please visit https://bsolive.com/jobs/ and complete the online application form and send to us with a cover letter referencing the Job Description and Person Specification.

Please send your completed application form and your cover letter to Nicola Fulker [email protected] by 9am, Friday 13th of November 2026.

Interview questions can be provided in advance if requested. If you need any of the application documents in a different format or have any questions about or need support with the application process, please also get in touch.

First round, online interviews will be help on Thursday 19th and Friday 20th of November 2026.

If you would like more information or a friendly confidential chat about any aspect of the job before applying, please contact Orchestra Manager Kat Wallace [email protected] to arrange a phone call.

The BSO is committed to safeguarding through safer recruitment.