Section Principal Cello

English National Ballet Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 9,100 - 15,000; Part time

Job summary

English National Ballet Philharmonic seeks a Section Principal Cello in London for a permanent part-time role. The post supports performances in major venues and regional engagements, with a minimum of 80 sessions per season and a fixed schedule under ENB MU terms.

The role requires leadership of the cello section, strong orchestral experience, and the ability to work within a touring schedule, including freelance musicians. Auditions and paid trial periods are part of the process.

Qualifications

• Proven professional experience in a world class ballet/symphonic/or opera orchestra as Section Principal Cello within the last year.
• Demonstrable ability to excel with a wide repertoire including new work.
• Ability to adapt to a touring orchestra schedule and to work with freelance players when needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead the cello section in rehearsals and performances.
• Liaise with the Orchestra Manager to maintain fixing lists and book freelance players as required.
• Perform consistently to the highest standard across London and regional engagements, plus potential international touring.

Skills

Orchestral experience

Section leadership

Touring adaptability

Job description

Section Principal Cello

Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

Department: Music

Employment Type: Permanent - Part Time

Location: London

Compensation: £114.33 per session

Description

About the role

Following the needs of the Artistic Programme, and working to the priorities set by the Music Director and Company Management, the postholder will perform consistently to the highest standards in rehearsals and performances, leading the section, and will liaise with the Orchestra Manager to maintain up to date fixing lists and consult on the booking of any freelance musicians for the section. The terms and conditions of the role fall under the ENBP and MU agreement, a copy of which can be found on the MU website. The orchestra schedule includes performances in London at Sadler’s Wells, the London Coliseum and Royal Albert Hall as well as regional venues throughout the UK and may include some international touring. Other engagements may be arranged throughout the season to support the work of the other departments within the company. Please note that this is a part-time position with a minimum guarantee of 80 sessions per season.

English National Ballet Philharmonic

English National Ballet Philharmonic is made up of many of the country’s top musicians, and boasts considerable experience in all forms of music-making. From the very beginning, English National Ballet Philharmonic has played an important part in creating the magic which is a vital part of every live performance. English National Ballet Philharmonic also play a significant part in the Engagement Department’s school visits and workshops, taking a taste of the music of ballet to tomorrow’s audience.

Key Selection Criteria

• Proven track record of professional experience in a world class ballet/symphonic/opera orchestra as Section Principal Cello within the last year.
• Demonstrable ability to excel with a range of repertoire including new work.
• Ability to adapt to the requirements of the schedule of a touring orchestra.
• Ability to work as part of a team as well as manage a section including freelance extra players.

Application Process

The appointment will be under the terms and conditions as they are defined in ENB’s House Agreement with The Musicians’ Union. As part of the recruitment process shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an in-person, accompanied audition. Auditions will be held w/c 2nd November.

Successful candidates will be invited to attend a paid trial which will begin from December 2026. The appointment will be under the terms and conditions as they are defined in ENB’s House Agreement with The Musicians’ Union.

Audition material will be made available to candidates in advance of the audition. Early application is encouraged as audition material will be sent out to all applicants and made available on our website.

Other applicants who were not successful for this position, may be considered for future work as Deputies or Extras.