Orchestral Apprenticeship
Become a temporary member of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Our Orchestral Apprenticeship gives young string players the unique opportunity to play amongst our ranks as an orchestral musician.
Get the full orchestral experience
About our Orchestral Apprenticeship
An Orchestral Apprenticeship with the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra gives musicians from the University of Oxford the invaluable opportunity to join our string section for up to four concerts in the main concert season. From rehearsal to applause, you’ll be there at every step of the performance, learning how a professional orchestra works from the inside and what it takes to become a professional musician. Apprentices also receive £100 for each concert they perform with the orchestra.
Concert schedules will be discussed following confirmation of your place.
How to Apply
Applications to the Orchestral Apprenticeship are open to string players only. Applicants must be in undergraduate or postgraduate study at the University of Oxford and play to Diploma standard or above.
Applications for 2025-26 will open in summer 2025.
Audition information
October 2025, date TBC
Candidates only applying for the Orchestral Apprenticeship and/or Side-by-Side will prepare the following for the audition:
- One accompanied piece lasting 4–5 minutes (movements and excerpts of a solo work may be performed)
- Two orchestral excerpts, which can be accessed here
- Sight-reading provided in the audition
For those also applying for the Young Artists’ Platform, candidates will also prepare:
- An additional piece, that may be accompanied, lasting 4–5 minutes (movements and excerpts of a solo work may be performed)
If you have any questions about the audition process or any of the student performance opportunities, please contact Lydia Bennett, Education Officer.