Recruiting classical
In partnership with eight of the UK’s leading orchestras, Black Lives in Music (BLiM) has created a unique audition opportunity designed to increase representation and diversity within the classical music sector. This collaborative programme is a collective step toward meaningful, lasting change in the orchestral world. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable workforce. Each orchestra recognises the importance of ensuring their work is both relevant to, and reflective of, the diverse communities they serve.
String players who are successful at audition will be added to the extra-work lists of all eight orchestras. This means that, as freelance opportunities arise, selected musicians will be invited to perform with any of the participating orchestras. Woodwind players will first take part in professional development sessions before auditioning. Depending on how well their sound blends with the existing section, they will then be assigned either to a specific orchestra or to all participating orchestras.
Key benefits of the programme include:
- Guaranteed audition for all eligible applicants (minimum: 3rd-year undergraduate)
- Fair and inclusive screened auditions, with panels that include global majority representation
- The chance to raise your profile, build confidence, expand professional networks, and gain momentum in your career
Join the scheme that’s opening doors for generations of musicians to access work with professional orchestras!
Application Eligibility & How to Apply
Who can apply?
- This programme is open to global majority string, woodwind, and brass players (musicians from Black, Asian, and ethnically underrepresented groups).
What qualifications do I need?
- Applicants must have completed an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in music (or equivalent).
- Current undergraduates in year 3 and above are welcome to apply.
- As you will be auditioning for some of the UK’s leading orchestras with international profiles, your playing must reflect a professional standard.
Right to work in the UK
- Applicants must reside in the UK and have the legal right to work.
- Student visas are not valid due to restrictions. Please check your eligibility here: [gov.uk].
If you meet the requirements above, please complete the application form below. - Please note: recorded auditions are not accepted — you must be available to attend the live audition dates
Here’s what some of last year’s Recruiting Classical musicians had to say about the programme:
“The repertoire was perfect for getting a true feel of the orchestras.”
“Without a doubt, I would recommend it to other musicians”
“Recruiting Classical has opened up more opportunities for me in a much shorter time. I would highly recommend it.”
“It has helped me to understand more about the industry and what to do as a freelancer.”
“It will be great to hold auditions for this scheme again to help the future generation.”
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FAQs
Black Lives in Music is an organisation working to help dismantle structural racism and level the playing field of opportunity for everyone in the UK music industry. We are supporting the industry by working with organisations to help provide more professional opportunities. We want to achieve equality for Black, Asian and Ethnically Diverse professionals at all levels and in all areas of the UK music industry. Together, we know that representation matters. With our partners we are helping to create a level playing field for everyone to have an equal chance to succeed and without being the subject of discrimination.
We are proud to be working with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Northern Sinfonia and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in a collaborative effort to widen representation in their orchestras and champion diverse performing talent. Together, we believe that classical music is for everyone – on the stage, behind the stage and in the audience. This initiative is part of a strong programme of work by the orchestras involved to drive change and deliver on this aspiration.
If you are a global majority player (musicians from Black, Asian and ethnically traditionally underrepresented groups), orchestrally trained or have good experience of playing in an orchestral setting, please apply. These are six of the UK’s leading orchestras, all with international profiles, your playing will need to reflect these standards in your audition.
The orchestras concerned are committed to nurturing a diverse and representative workforce that is representative of wider contemporary society in the UK. They will be positive and fair in their actions to book successful applicants as opportunities arise.
In exceptional circumstances, we can help with intercity travel if you are based outside London or Manchester.
Please contact rc@blim.org.uk should you require support with travel.
Please complete the application and the Tell us about you form. Should you be successful in your application you may be required to attend auditions.
All applicants will be given an audition, we wish for you to have the best possible opportunity to express your talent through a fair and inclusive process.
Musicians involved in last year’s Recruiting Classical programme are already working with the UK’s leading orchestras. Should you have any questions, please get in touch. If you are a global majority strings or woodwind player wishing to develop your professional experience in the orchestra sector, please apply – together, we can make change!