The Graduate Traineeship with the SCO and University of St Andrew's Music Centre is a nine-month opportunity for a recent graduate to work on different projects across both organisations. In this feature, Brogan Orkney shares her experience of starting her career at the beginning of the pandemic and getting to know the world of arts management.

Taking on the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s Graduate Trainee role over the last year was an incredibly valuable experience. The traineeship is an 8 month position, giving a recent graduate from the University of St Andrews the opportunity to work across the Laidlaw Music Centre in St Andrews and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. The role provides first-hand experience of project management in a creative learning setting, as well as an insight into other areas of arts management such as marketing, fundraising and concert planning.

For me, the traineeship was an ideal stepping-stone from University into the world of work. At University I began studying Psychology, however, I decided to change my degree to Art History after taking up the subject to fill up my credits and becoming fascinated in studying the creative pursuits of great artists and movements.

Whilst nearing the end of my studies, I found the application for the traineeship online and after reading about the SCO’s projects I decided to apply. I was excited to see so many opportunities available for people of all ages and was eager to be a part of delivering these creative experiences to participants. Having been involved in community music activities from a very young age, I am incredibly passionate about how beneficial the arts are both physically and mentally to people of all ages. I was particularly interested in SCO ReConnect, a project for people living with dementia, and their Primary School Resources, as I was considering a career working with these age groups.

Within my first week, I was already immersed in the SCO and the Laidlaw’s projects – even with the restrictions of 2020! I managed the Orchestra in Residence programme, organising masterclasses, lunchtime concerts and other activities within the St Andrews Community. I also played a big role in the SCO’s Pictures at an Exhibition online project and the set-up of their new Youth Advisory Council.

Brogan features in a Instagram reel video promoting the Call for Applications for the Youth Advisory Council.

These experiences gave me a deep insight into the workings of a professional arts organisation like the SCO, as well as learning new digital skills and joining important conversations about inclusivity and diversity. Throughout the year I was also given the chance to be a part of many other projects, festivals and filming days in lots of different locations.

The year definitely equipped me for the world of work, built my confidence and clarified that seeing the benefits of our work for participants was particularly rewarding for me. I am now going into the field of education and looking forward to using my creative skills to help make a difference!

The Graduate Traineeship with the SCO and University of St Andrew's Music Centre is a year-long opportunity for a recent graduate to work on different projects across both organisations.