The Westmorland Orchestra, currently enjoying great success under the baton of Melvin Tay, is looking for a new Music Director & Conductor to commence in November 2026. We are an ambitious amateur orchestra, committed to developing our playing, performing and building a relationship with the local community as we further our charitable objectives:

to advance, improve, develop and maintain public education in, and appreciation of, the art and science of music in all its aspects by any means the trustees see fit, including through the presentation of public concerts and recitals.

If you can inspire, motivate, challenge and develop the orchestra through imaginative programming, working in partnership with the orchestra’s committee, then The Westmorland Orchestra would love to hear from you!

Please apply by email with:

• A brief explanation of your interest and how you would like to approach the role;
• Your CV; and
• A draft concert programme with 90 minutes of music, explaining your choices.

Applications and any questions to Ann Robb, treasurer@westmorlandorchestra.org.uk.
All applications will be acknowledged and considered.
Closing date 28 February 2026.

Further Information

Westmorland Orchestra is a symphony orchestra with about 50 playing members. We have a dedicated professional leader and we engage professionals for concerts if required – eg soloists, percussion, harpists, and to boost orchestra sections if necessary. Originally an “adult education” orchestra our year is usually based on three academic terms with three concerts with up to ten rehearsals per concert. We have been looking at a more flexible approach this season. We also hold one or two open “come and play” days a year. Recently we have had a short series of stand-alone play through sessions during the
summer on Wednesday evenings.

We rehearse at Castle Street Community Centre, Kendal, LA9 7AD on Wednesdays 7:15 to 9:30 pm. N.B. We understand that sadly this may cause some potential applicants difficulties as the location is not well-served by public transport.
Details of recent concerts and associated reviews are on our website. Recent repertoire has included Stravinsky – Firebird, Bartok – Concerto for Orchestra, Sibelius – Violin Concerto, Saint-Saens – Symphony 3 “Organ”

The Westmorland Orchestra is committed to the fair treatment of all individuals.