JOB DETAILS
CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent, Full-time
DEPARTMENT: BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
LOCATION: The Studios, BBC MediaCityUK, Salford
SALARY: £52,011
In order to apply for this position, candidates will need to apply via the 'Apply via musicalchairs’ button to complete a short information form. Candidates will then follow the below application and audition process: The deadline to complete the form is Monday 8th June 2026.
Overview
The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra is the oldest radio orchestra in the world. Founded in 1922 as the 2ZY orchestra, we have been broadcasting live music for over 100 years. It’s what we do best, and 103 years later, we are still going strong.
We are excited to start looking for an exceptional musician to lead our fabulous Horn section in the position of Section Principal Horn to create some of the finest broadcasts, recordings, and performances in the world.
It’s a time of real growth for us. In the last year, we’ve launched some major new partnerships, expanded our audiences, and delivered incredible projects. From five-star Mahler at the Bridgewater Hall to critically acclaimed CD recordings; from thrilling international tours to our TV series Musical Storyland (14 million streams and counting) – the orchestra is on brilliant form.
Most importantly, we have the best possible mandate from the BBC – to create inspiring, ambitious, and courageous artistic work, and to make a large-scale impact for our audiences with that work.
If you think you have what we need, we can’t wait to hear from you.
www.bbc.co.uk/philharmonic
Purpose of the Role
Key Responsibilities
* To sit as Section Principal Horn, demonstrating outstanding solo and orchestral playing abilities.
* To lead and manage the Horn section, fostering a supportive environment and taking responsibility for the performance and welfare of the section along with the Orchestra Manager.
* To support and develop positive working relationships with conductors, freelancers and all members of the orchestra.
* To play a key role in the life of the BBC Philharmonic – to be a passionate team player with a commitment to maintain and enhance the reputation of the orchestra.
Essential Criteria
* Outstanding professional orchestral and solo playing abilities.
* Knowledge, passion and appreciation of the range of repertoire performed by the BBC Philharmonic.
* Ability to lead, motivate and work collaboratively – to provide artistic direction and to inspire members of the section and orchestra.
* Leadership: ability to provide constructive musical feedback to colleagues, deal with sensitive issues and establish high standards of musical performance.
* Interpersonal skills: ability to contribute as part of a diverse team and to support colleagues, conductors and freelancers.
APPLICATIONS MUST BE VIA THE MUSICALCHAIRS WEBSITE - PLEASE CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK FOR FULL DETAILS
On How To Apply And Auditions Instructions
Job: Section Principal Horn - BBC Philharmonic
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: MONDAY 8TH JUNE 2026
If you need any further information or have any questions, please contact maria.villa@bbc.co.uk
Disclaimer
This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.
Please note: If you were to be offered this role, the BBC will conduct Employment screening checks which include Reference checks; Eligibility to work checks; and if applicable to the role, Safeguarding and Adverse media/Social media checks. Any offer made is conditional on these checks being satisfactory.
Before your start date, you may need to disclose any unspent convictions or police charges, in line with our Recruitment policy. This allows us to discuss any support you may need and assess any risks. Failure to disclose may result in the withdrawal of your offer.
For any general queries, please contact: bbchr@bbc.co.uk
We are unable to accept applications via CV and only applications made online will be considered. Please click on the APPLY NOW button to proceed with your application.
Redeployment
The BBC is committed to redeploying employees seeking suitable alternative employment within the BBC and they will be given priority consideration ahead of other applicants. Priority consideration means for those employees seeking redeployment their application will be considered alongside anyone else at risk of redundancy, prior to any individuals being considered who are not at risk.
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