Assistant orchestra manager

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 18 November 2026, 9:00am

Play an important role behind the scenes, coordinating musicians and supporting a busy programme of orchestral performances.

The Scottish Chamber Orchestra (SCO) is one of Scotland’s five National Performing Companies and has been a galvanizing force in Scotland’s music scene since its inception in 1974. The SCO believes that access to world-class music is not a luxury but something that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in, helping individuals and communities everywhere to thrive.

We’re looking for an Assistant Orchestra Manager to join the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s busy Concerts Team. You’ll play a key role in the day-to-day running of rehearsals, concerts and recordings, working closely with our musicians and visiting artists to make sure everything runs smoothly. If you’re highly organised, calm under pressure and have experience working in classical music, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage Orchestra personnel booking (fixing) for orchestra and chamber concerts: manage Performing Members’ playing commitment and engage musically appropriate extras and deputies to produce a complete ensemble for all engagements
• Alongside the Head of Orchestra Management, balance musical and budgetary demands when engaging players
• Distribute accurate and timely schedule information and terms of engagement to Performing Members and visiting musicians
• Maintain accurate records and prioritise timely and accurate communications internally and externally.
• Be the primary duty manager for rehearsals and recording sessions, and a share of concerts
• Provide a welcoming and efficient point of contact for visiting artists/conductors; alongside the Head of Concerts & Projects, ensure the smooth running of artist transfers within Edinburgh and to concerts around Scotland
• Support the Head of Orchestra Management in managing Performing Member vacancies, processing applications and arranging auditions
• Arrange instrument hire and (where required) tuning and maintenance of the SCO’s instrument inventory
• Assist in creating monthly and long-term rehearsal and performance schedules as required
• Working with the Concerts Director and Head of Orchestra Management, oversee player fees and expenses for Performing Members and visiting musicians, providing accurate and timely information to the Finance Department
• Undertake health and safety tasks relevant to this role, including regular noise monitoring during rehearsals and concerts as required
• Manual handling: This role requires some manual handling, eg: moving boxes of music, music stands, chairs; moving equipment up and down stairs; loading/unloading equipment

Candidate profile

Qualifications

Essential (required):

• Level 6 qualification as set out in the Regulated Qualifications Framework
• Full clean UK driving licence (the SCO Concerts pool car is currently manual, but will soon be replaced with an automatic vehicle)

Experience

Essential (required):

• A proven track record working in a classical music (preferably orchestral) environment
• Experience of administrative systems
• Substantial driving experience and confidence in driving for work

Desirable (optional):

• Previous experience of orchestra/ ensemble tour management
• Experience of using orchestra management software

Skills and knowledge

Essential (required)

• Enthusiasm for music and sound knowledge of orchestral repertoire
• Literate, articulate and numerate, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work fast and accurately under pressure, to specific deadlines
• Excellent IT skills, knowledge of MS Office 365 software including SharePoint, Excel and Word; ability to learn new software programmes

Desirable (optional):

• Knowledge/understanding of the ABO/MU Freelance Agreement
• Knowledge/experience of H&S issues affecting the orchestral sector

Personal qualities

Essential (required):

• Prepared to work flexibly
• Highly organised, with meticulous attention to detail
• Resourceful, with a “can do” attitude
• Able to work on own initiative and as part of a team
• Able to plan ahead and anticipate issues/problems
• Ability to relate easily with players, colleagues and contacts at all levels
• Able to maintain confidentiality and understand issues requiring discretion and sensitivity
• Ability to work calmly under pressure
• Able to learn new skills and adapt to changing requirements

We welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented in the creative industries.

Please make sure that you state in your application that you found this role via Creative Access.