A musician sits at a workstation with a laptop and microphone in a dimly lit rehearsal or recording space. Wearing a black beanie, glasses, and a chain necklace, they raise one hand while looking toward the laptop. Out-of-focus drums and warm orange stage lights create a layered foreground, with sheet music visible on a stand to the side.
A musician sits at a workstation with a laptop and microphone in a dimly lit rehearsal or recording space. Wearing a black beanie, glasses, and a chain necklace, they raise one hand while looking toward the laptop. Out-of-focus drums and warm orange stage lights create a layered foreground, with sheet music visible on a stand to the side.

Trainee Musical Director Programme

Current projects

We are looking for young musicians aged 17 to 30 to take part in our Trainee Musical Director programme designed to demystify the role of the Musical Director (MD), while working closely with renowned Musical Director, Wendy Gadian.

Where: Hackney Empire

When: Wed 9 Sep - Wed 7 Oct (Every Wednesday, 6 - 8pm)

How much: Free

What you’ll gain:

  • Understand what a Musical Director does
  • Learn how Musical Directors collaborate with Directors, Musicians and actors
  • Develop the skills and approaches needed to be a Musical Director
  • Gain insight into a professional Musical Theatre making process by observing aspects of our 2026 pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk
  • Better understand career opportunities for Musical Directors and how to find them
  • Reflect on your own interests and skill set and set your own development goals for the project

We are looking for people who are:

  • Aged 17 – 30
  • Considering, or starting out in a career in music, and/or are in training at Higher Education level
  • Passionate about music and developing their skills
  • Want to learn about the industry and make connections
  • Motivated and committed
  • Ideally have keyboard skills

Observing Jack and the Beanstalk:

Our 2026 pantomime production of Jack and the Beanstalk runs from Sun 22 Nov – Thu 31 Dec and during this time, you will watch at least one preview performance to observe the Musical Director. A date will be mutually agreed in advance.

Sign up via the form below to express your interest by Mon 3 Aug at 9am.

Interviews will take place online on Wed 12 and Thu 13 Aug.