MAGNUM OPUS
About the Programme
Magnum Opus is a 12-month artist-development programme for three UK-based early-career composers who want to:
- Refine their compositional voice
- Develop orchestral writing skills
- Gain first-hand experience of orchestral management
Throughout the year you’ll reflect on your practice, work closely with Britten Sinfonia musicians, and receive tailored mentoring from industry professionals and Programme Directors, Gavin Higgins and Freya Waley-Cohen.
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.
Magnum Opus 2026 is now underway. Recruitment for the 2027 cohort will begin in Autumn this year.
“A wonderful opportunity to refine my orchestral writing and hear my work performed by one of the UK’s most inspiring ensembles.”
What You'll Receive
- Bursary £2,750 – covering travel, accommodation and commissions (paid in three instalments)
- Two professional performances with Britten Sinfonia
- Workshops & mentoring from leading composers and musicians
- Career-development sessions on production budgeting, marketing and fundraising
- Networking & profile opportunities through concerts and composer community events
Who We're Looking For
This is a focused scheme targeted towards individuals looking for a transformational experience working with an internationally renowned orchestra.
We are looking for composers who predominately use Western notation and have some experience in writing for chamber ensembles and orchestras. You may have taken part in similar schemes before or studied composition in a higher education setting. However, you will be looking to build deeper relationships with professional musicians, establishing a clear compositional style and being receptive to feedback and mentoring from industry professionals on topics such as marketing and fundraising.
We are looking to work with those who are keen to develop, not only as composers, but also as well-rounded creative individuals who will become part of the Britten Sinfonia team for the duration of their residency with us. We will encourage you to step outside of your comfort zone and explore new contexts for your work, for example in community and school settings. Above all, you will embody the collaborative spirit for which Britten Sinfonia is known for. You will become an active member of the Opus composer community; attending networking events and Britten Sinfonia concerts, offering advice to Opus 1 composers, and being an advocate for the organisation at a national level.
Magnum Opus Composer Profiles
“Thanks to the exposure I received as a composer working with Britten Sinfonia, I’ve secured professional engagements and commissions that can be directly traced to people hearing my music during the scheme’s concerts.”
Eligibility
To be eligible for Magnum Opus you should:
- Be aged 18 or over at the time of applying
- Not be in full- or part-time education.
- 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.
Our funders
Britten Sinfonia is a PRS Foundation Talent Development Network Partner supported by PPL. Magnum Opus is also supported by the Vaughan Williams Foundation, Garrick Charitable Trust, the Thriplow Charitable Trust, the Leche Trust.
Keep in touch
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Follow us on socials and sign up to our mailing list to keep up to date with the latest opportunities to get involved.