Creative Associate Programme 2026-27

Details

The Creative Associate programme is a bespoke training and development opportunity for two individual musicians enabling them to develop their practice and explore new work, helping us to achieve our wider mission to enable ‘a classical music offer that is inclusive, engaging and relevant to 21st century audiences’.

The programme is designed not as an initial or introductory opportunity but as a second step for musicians who are already known to us[1], through our Open Call events, training programmes or producing work. 

The 9-month[2] programmme will run from October 2026 – June 2027 and include:

  • A bespoke programme of mentoring and coaching from experienced producers and directors
  • A £2,000 bursary for the development of new work (can be spent on individual research and development time, or commissioning other musicians/artists)

Applicants should:

  • Already have some experience of our working practice through participation in our Open Call events, training programmes or producing work.
  • Have a particular interest in our audience centred approach – see here for more information.
  • Have a particular interest in reaching new or underserved audiences.
  • We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in the sector.  This includes:
    • Musicians from the global majority
    • D/deaf and disabled musicians
    • Trans and non-binary musicians
    • Musicians from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
  • We will accept applications from those currently studying at university or conservatoire as long as they are in year 2 onwards from October 2026. 

Application Process

Interested applicants should complete this simple online application form and send us an accompanying CV.  We will subsequently be in touch should we require any further information.  Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an informal online conversation with MishMash Artistic and Executive Director, Liz Muge and Creative Director, Sophie Rivlin.

Deadline: Friday 11th October 2026

Any questions please contact liz@mishmashproductions.co.uk

Context

The Creative Associate programme is a key element of our commitment to Workforce Development and Diversity which forms the second of our three key themes in our 26-28 strategic plan. 

Under the ‘Workforce Development and Diversity’ theme in our strategic plan the key objective is:

  • To develop and deliver a comprehensive Workforce Development and Diversity Programme advocating for alternative career pathways and performance practice and delivering inclusive and accessible training for all career stages.

The Creative Associate programme is just one element of our response to this objective. 

You can find out more about our commitment to Workforce Development and Diversity here.

[1] An Open Call event, appropriate for musicians new to our work will be available later on this year.

[2] It is envisaged that the necessary mentoring and R&D activity take place over this period.  This can be coordinated around other commitments.