Symphony Orchestra
How hard is it to make it in a major symphony orchestra?
Please don't respond unless you are deeply involved in music. If you graduate from a decent music school, then what are your chances of making it in a symphony orchestra. Let me give an example. I live in Oklahoma, and I believe the best music school in our state in the Wanda school of music. If you graduate from a school of that caliber, then what are the chances of getting to play with an orchestra of the caliber of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic?
Though I'm a singer, I have several friends in major orchestras throughout the U.S. who have told me a few things over the years.
An audition committee is going to be mostly interested in how you actually play, not where you studied. Graduation from even the most prestigious school does not automatically guarantee talent or finesse or even an aptitude for artistic expression. [I'm doing quite well as an opera/theatre performer, yet studied only with private teachers -- I have no formal degree.]
The auditors often don't even want to watch you audition. It's not uncommon for the applicant to be assigned a mere registration number and to enter, play, and exit behind a screen -- so the auditors don't know your age, gender, or appearance. They're listening solely for technique and expression.
When orchestras have an opening, they post it on their website. They'll either mention a few major pieces they'd like to hear a sampling of, or they'll specify and provide music for a certain movement. I THINK pieces don't have to be memorized, but don't quote me on that.
If you know where you'd like to work after you graduate, you should contact that city's AFM [American Federation of Musicians] office for more guidance. Also check out websites for some of your target orchestras. But remember, since openings can be infrequent, you'll likely need to be willing to relocate to where the work is.
Whats On My YouTube Today?
Johannes Brahms -- YouTube Symphony Orchestra
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