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 young musicians 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.
How to Apply
Applications to the Orchestral Apprenticeship are open to string players only, and applicants must be in undergraduate or postgraduate study at the University of Oxford and play to Diploma standard or above.
We are currently unable to accept new applicants.
Audition information
Auditions will last 12 minutes and will consist of three components:
- 4-5 minutes of an accompanied solo work (this can be an excerpt of a longer work)
- Two orchestral excerpts provided 4 days in advance
- Sight reading provided in the audition
An accompanist will be provided although you may bring your own.
If you have any questions about the Orchestral Apprenticeship or any other student programmes, please contact William Emery, Education Officer.
If you are interested in playing alongside the OPO but are not yet of standard for the Apprenticeship, you may be interested in our Side-by-Side programme. If applying for the Apprenticeship, you need not apply separately for Side-by-Side as you will automatically be considered.