Symphony / Philharmonic Orchestra Musician

A symphony/philharmonic orchestra musician is someone who performs in a large ensemble, often consisting of eighty or more musicians who play brass, woodwind, string, and percussion instruments. Musicians are hired for orchestra spots or seats through an audition process. Once a musician has won an audition, they will be a member of that specific orchestra and perform in all performances scheduled for that ensemble. Working within an orchestra would be great for someone who wants to perform with a large group and wants to develop their instrument proficiency to advanced levels but is not interested in the level of entrepreneurship and self-promotion required for solo or chamber work (See Soloist and Chamber Ensemble Musician).

Many orchestras perform a variety of music including standard orchestral works, contemporary compositions, and film music. Some ensembles work with composers who are writing new works and will perform premieres. Orchestras often perform at a specific concert hall or a couple of locations near each other, but will sometimes go on tour to locations around the world.

Many orchestra positions are very competitive and all musicians have advanced level training, usually from a combination of advanced degrees and private instruction. Many musicians combine their performance work with teaching, often running their own private studio and/or working at a college, university, or conservatory.