Join Benslow Music as their Head of Music and Learning, championing the life-long benefits music brings and leading a dynamic music education programme.
Who we are
Benslow Music, a thriving musical hub based on a campus in Hitchin, is seeking a Head of Music & Learning to lead the strategic development and delivery of its diverse programmes.
This pivotal role encompasses residential, day, and online courses spanning classical, jazz, popular, and folk genres, a vibrant concert series, and the Instrument Loan Scheme which holds a collection of over 1,700 string and woodwind instruments that are lent to young musicians aged 7-25.
The role requires an inspiring leader, passionate about music education and its life-long benefits, who can enhance participant experiences, foster partnerships, and contribute to the Trust’s strategic growth towards their centenary in 2029.
The ideal candidate will be a self-starter with significant programme management experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
About the role
Benslow Music creates enriching music learning experiences for people of all ages, supporting individual development, inspiring curiosity, and celebrating creativity. Established in 1929 as the Rural Music Schools Association, it has grown into a lively campus in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, featuring two recital halls, practice rooms, accommodation, and an extensive music library.
Today, Benslow Music is a vibrant musical hub offering around 150 short courses annually, catering to adult musicians of all abilities from late-starters to early-career professionals, across diverse genres including classical, jazz, and folk.
Benslow Music also host a regular concert series showcasing emerging and acclaimed artists and are home to the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme, which provides over 1,700 instruments to young musicians aged 7-25, ensuring access regardless of background.
The Head of Music & Learning will lead the delivery, strategic development and evaluation of Benslow Music’s core programmes: courses, concerts, and the Instrument Loan Scheme. Reporting to the Chief Executive, this role is crucial in shaping an ever-evolving and balanced annual programme.
Key responsibilities include
- Overseeing and strategically developing diverse music education opportunities.
- Cultivating relationships with tutors, artists, and partner organisations to foster programme growth.
- Developing online activities and ensuring excellent participant experiences and adherence to health and safety policies.
- Managing programme budgets and monitoring the financial performance of courses, concerts, and the Instrument Loan Scheme.
- Monitoring the quality of activities, including the coordination of feedback from participants, tutors and other stakeholders.
- Leading and line-managing a dedicated team, ensuring high standards and stakeholder satisfaction.
- Contributing to Benslow Music’s strategic planning and fostering productive artistic, educational, and community partnerships.
This role significantly impacts the organisation’s mission to unlock potential and share the lifelong benefits of music.
Who we are looking for
Benslow Music are seeking someone who can offer an extensive balance of skills.
You will be a self-starter with an eye for detail and the ability to work flexibly. Someone who values working in a collaborative and supportive environment, you will be a good problem solver, capable of working autonomously, providing sound judgement and acting with discretion.
The successful applicant will demonstrate
- Significant experience in programme and project management, particularly in delivering music or music education projects, and experience in adult amateur music-making.
- Breadth and depth of musical knowledge to be credible with a range of stakeholders.
- Proven senior management experience, contributing to the strategic development of programmes or organisations.
- Exceptional people skills and communication abilities (written and verbal), including contract management and negotiation skills.
- A deep understanding and appreciation of Benslow Music’s mission and ethos, a breadth of musical knowledge, and a demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Strong administrative, organisational, and budget management skills, alongside excellent IT proficiency.
- Demonstrable understanding of and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Networks and connections in the music/music education sector.
For further information about the role or to arrange a confidential discussion, please contact our advising consultants at Peridot Partners:
David Hingley | david@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07534 244249
Philippa Fabry | philippa@peridotpartners.co.uk | 07772 902071