Healthcare Musician

Job overview

North Bristol NHS Trust & OPUS Music CIC are collaborating to develop a local approach to music-making on the wards at Southmead Hospital.

Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for music-making (with instrument  &/or voice) on the day of the interview.

This is a Freelance role paid on a per session basis at the rate of £40ph/£300per day/£150 per half day, with expenses paid at a rate of £10 per in person session. Trainees recruited must attend all training dates. Successful recruitment to this pilot does not guarantee future paid opportunities outside commitments outlined below.

• 6 x 2-hour online training sessions •    2 x 7.5 hour days of in person training •    10 x 2.5-hour sessions of in person, hospital-based practice (including preparation & reflection) •    5 x 1-hour online mentoring sessions

We are recruiting experienced musicians curious about using music in a hospital setting to support people’s wellbeing. Successful applicants will join a structured training pathway to develop the skills and confidence needed to work safely & effectively within the Trust’s clinical spaces.

We are committed to supporting the region’s vibrant music scene & reducing environmental impact. We are looking for musicians who can easily commute to North Bristol NHS Trust in a sustainable way. While we welcome all applications, we will prioritise musicians based in the region to help foster opportunities in an area where they are often limited.

Main duties of the job

Successful candidates will undertake training as a Healthcare Musician which includes person centered practice, the practicalities and ethics of working in clinical environments and reflective practice. Alongside this training, they will begin to observe and gradually deliver ward-based music making.

As a Healthcare Musician, you will deliver live music on hospital wards, responding to the needs, preferences and energy of patients, families and staff. You will initiate and shape musical interactions that may involve listening, improvising, singing, playing familiar songs or co-creating new music. Sessions may take place at the bedside, in shared bays or communal ward spaces.

You will build professional relationships with ward staff and work in line with all Trust policies, including infection prevention, safeguarding and confidentiality.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Healthcare Musician in training will participate fully in the structured training programme and demonstrate a willingness to develop the specific skills required for hospital-based practice.

As the training progresses, they will plan and deliver ward-based music making sessions, while remaining supported by online mentoring. Healthcare Musicians will use their skills to deliver up to ten responsive music sessions on hospital wards between September 2026 to February 2027.

All Healthcare Musicians will complete mandatory Trust training and always adhere to health and safety guidance. They will engage in ongoing reflection and professional development to ensure safe, compassionate and high-quality practice on the wards.

This training and mentoring will be delivered by OPUS Music CIC as part of a partnership with Fresh Arts, partly funded by Arts Council England.