LSSO Conductor in Residence applications now open

Applications are open for a young conductor to hold a year-long residency with the London Schools Symphony Orchestra (LSSO) thanks to Guildhall Young Artists (GYA) and Black Lives in Music (BLiM). 

This is the second year the residency has run for young conductors from under-respresented groups – a scheme that is designed to champion and nurture diverse talent within the orchestra. 

The successful applicant will be offered one-to-one mentor support from professional conductors, and will gain experience working with LSSO students during holiday courses. 

In addition, they will be involved in a number of areas of the orchestra, attending audition panels, taking sectional rehearsals, and conducting opportunities. The inaugural postholder Bradley Wilson conducted Errolyn Wallen’s Mighty River at a concert in Milton Court earlier this year as part of his time in post. 

Roger Wilson, director of operations at Black Lives in Music, calls this programme ‘groundbreaking in shining a light on developing conducting talent from underrepresented communities’. 

Alison Mears, director of Guildhall Young Artists adds that the group is ‘delighted’ to continue its partnership with BLiM. ‘It has been so rewarding to see Bradley develop as a conductor during the year,’ she says. ‘He has brought a new energy to the orchestra and introduced the students to some really exciting repertoire.'

'The conductor in residence post enriches the learning opportunities for all involved with the LSSO, and we hope that in turn we are helping to drive change towards a more inclusive music profession.’

Find out more online.