Magnum Opus is a year-long artist development scheme for three early-career, UK-based composers who are ready to take the next step in refining their orchestral writing, developing their creative voice, and gaining a deeper understanding of how professional orchestras work.
Throughout the programme, composers collaborate closely with Britten Sinfonia musicians and receive mentoring from Programme Directors Gavin Higgins and Freya Waley-Cohen, as well as other leading industry professionals.
Each composer creates two new works — a chamber piece and a chamber concerto — both performed by Britten Sinfonia as part of the orchestra’s concert season.
We’re looking for composers who predominantly use Western notation and have some experience writing for chamber ensemble or orchestra. Applicants must not be in full- or part-time education between January and November 2026.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Magnum Opus 2026 you should:
- Be aged 18 or over at the time of applying
- Not be in full- or part-time education between Jan – Nov 2026
- Have been UK-based for at least two years and plan to remain so during the programme
- Provide two scores and recordings or MIDI realisations of your work
- Be actively pursuing composition as part of your career
- Be available for the 19 February 2026 workshop and 17 April 2026 launch concert in London
Application Process
- Submit your application via the online form HERE, including two works (scores + recordings or MIDI) before 23:59 on Wednesday 26 November.
- Applications are reviewed twice by two panel members to reduce unconscious bias.
- A longlist is created, then the Programme Directors produce a shortlist for interview.
- Interviews: Wednesday 17 December 2025
- Outcomes: All applicants notified by Monday 22 December 2025
Selection Panel
- Gavin Higgins – Composer
- Freya Waley-Cohen – Composer
- Joe Cutler – Composer
- Meurig Bowen – CEO & Artistic Director, Britten Sinfonia
- Chris Bell – Learning & Participation Director, Britten Sinfonia
We are not using anonymised selection so that we can consider the diversity and backgrounds of applicants as well as identifying demographics we should be encouraging to apply in the future.
Access Support for d/Deaf and disabled applicants
We understand that application processes can present challenges for some d/Deaf and disabled applicants. To reduce barriers, we offer:
- Alternative formats or video applications
- Deadline extensions where appropriate
- Access support bursary (up to £200) to pay an access worker to assist with your application
To request access support, please contact learning@brittensinfonia.com