Guildhall Young Artists and Black Lives in Music open applications for the 2026/27 LSSO Conductor in Residence

Guildhall Young Artists and Black Lives in Music have opened applications for an emerging conductor to be resident with the London Schools Symphony Orchestra (LSSO) for a year.   

Now entering its fifth year, the residency supports conducting students and early career conductors from historically under-represented backgrounds, helping to nurture diverse talent and champion greater representation within the orchestral sector. 

The successful applicant will gain valuable experience working with LSSO students during the orchestra’s Winter, Spring and Summer holiday courses. They will also have the opportunity to work alongside, and receive support from, a range of professional conductors. 

The Conductor in Residence is involved in many aspects of the orchestra’s work, including attending audition panels, supporting rehearsals, taking sectional rehearsals and gaining a professional conducting credit with the orchestra in concert. 

Earlier this year, Sitali Dewan, the 2025-26 postholder, conducted Kauyumari by Gabriela Ortiz, sharing the podium with Dominic Wheeler, Head of Opera Studies at Guildhall School. This summer, Sitali will conduct the orchestra during its tour to Catalunya, Spain, and at the orchestra’s homecoming concert at Fairfield Halls in September. 

The Conductor in Residence scheme forms part of Guildhall Young Artists’ commitment to supporting aspiring musicians from historically under-represented backgrounds. It also forms part of Guildhall School’s ongoing partnership with Black Lives in Music,  a leading organisation working to create meaningful change for Black and global majority musicians and music professionals, tackling systemic racism and championing greater equity, diversity and inclusion across the music industry. 

Applications are invited from conductors who have recently completed, or are currently undertaking, conducting studies at undergraduate or postgraduate level, including those studying conducting as part of a wider degree. We also welcome applications from early career conductors who have gained equivalent experience within or beyond formal study. 

The residency is offered on a self-employed basis, with a total fee of £6,000 payable in three instalments. 

Apply now 

Applications should be submitted by 9am on Monday 7 September 2026. For details on how to apply, please see section 5 of the FAQs below. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 15 September 2026. Shortlisted applicants invited to interview will also be able to attend the LSSO concert that evening at Fairfield Halls.