The Cumnock Tryst is looking for new Trustees
The Cumnock Tryst, a world-class music festival founded by acclaimed composer Sir James MacMillan in his East Ayrshire home town, invites applications for our Board of Trustees.
Recently recognised with the prestigious Sky Arts Award and the Royal Philharmonic Society Series and Events Award 2025, we're looking for passionate individuals to help guide the organisation into its second decade future.
About us
Since its foundation in 2014, the Cumnock Tryst has established itself as one of the UK's most relevant, place-based contemporary classical music organisations. We connect our local Ayrshire community with international musicians through an annual festival and year-round engagement programmes, contributing to cultural regeneration and boosting the local economy in East Ayrshire, while providing uplifting artistic experiences for audiences, participants, composers, and performers alike.
The Role of Trustees
As a Trustee, you'll play a crucial role in:
Developing our strategic vision and direction
Overseeing financial sustainability and good governance
Supporting fundraising initiatives
Advocating for the festival within the community
Trustees attend approximately 4 board meetings per year (primarily online, with one in-person meeting annually), and are expected to serve a term of 4 years, with the potential for reappointment for a further 4-year term.
What We’re Looking For
Commitment to The Cumnock Tryst's mission and values
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
Understanding of good governance principles
Experience in arts management, finance, law, marketing, fundraising, or community engagement would be particularly valuable, as would be knowledge of the Scottish cultural landscape. But candidates with expertise in other areas are also encouraged to apply.
Diversity Commitment
The Cumnock Tryst is committed to diversity at all levels of our organisation, and particularly at board level. We welcome potential trustee applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including people of different ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientation, levels of physical ability, and socioeconomic circumstances.
Further Details
For more information about the application process or to discuss the role further, please visit our website or contact Paul Wood, chair@thecumnocktryst.com.
