Play with Paraorchestra: a new opportunity for disabled musicians aged 18-25

We are looking for six talented musicians aged 18-25 who identify as disabled, have access requirements, or have special educational needs, to take part in Play with Paraorchestra: a two-day workshop taking place in July 2025 in which participants will rehearse and play alongside members of the Paraorchestra ensemble. 

Background

Paraorchestra exists to push the boundaries of music-making and create art with passion and purpose. 

Through our artist development programme Modulate, we work behind the scenes to enact meaningful change in the orchestral industry - which is all too often inaccessible, exclusive and unsupportive.

We know that D/deaf, disabled and neurodiverse musicians face barriers from the very beginning of their careers. That’s why we created Play with Paraorchestra.

About Play with Paraorchestra

Play with Paraorchestra is designed to give participants the experience of playing in a setting that is both supportive and challenging, to develop confidence and find their own voice, working in the same ambitious, collaborative, and person-centred way as on all of our live shows. 

A small group of young musicians who identify as D/deaf, disabled or neurodiverse will join forces with professional Paraorchestra musicians for a two-day workshop designed to give young people the experience of rehearsing and performing in a professional environment. 

The group will explore a range of musical styles, with a blend of acoustic and electronic sound worlds, working alongside professional Paraorchestra musicians. The workshop will culminate in a sharing session for a small invited audience at the end of the second day, with one-to-one mentorship offered in the following months.

There is no cost attached to Play with Paraorchestra. We will also cover the cost of accommodation, travel, catering and access support for all successful applicants to attend the in-person workshops in Bristol.

What we’re looking for

We are looking for six talented and adventurous young musicians aged 18-25 who either identify as disabled, have access requirements, or have special educational needs, and want to experience playing with Paraorchestra. 

We are looking for musicians with a creative spark, a passion and commitment to playing live music who are playing at Grade 5 or above standard in relation to musical ability – though it is not necessary to have achieved any formal qualifications to apply.

How to apply

For more information and to apply for Play with Paraorchestra please download an application pack below.

If you require the application pack in an alternative format or have a question about applying, please contact: ArtistDevelopment@paraorchestra.com