CBSO Orchestral Residency: Flute and Piccolo

The CBSO Orchestral Residency is a programme designed by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra to support young musicians to take the next steps towards a professional orchestral career.

The CBSO Orchestral Residency offers exceptional young musicians aged 21 to 25, the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside one of Europe’s leading symphony orchestras, directed by some of the most inspiring conductors of our time.

The programme will consist of an intensive residential week of activity in July every year, culminating in a concert at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall. It combines incredible music-making, networking, mentoring, and professional development — giving musicians real insight into the life of a modern orchestral player. 

Please note that this programme is unpaid but includes accommodation provided in Birmingham.

When and Where

Dates: 21-25 July 2027
Conductor: Kazuki Yamada
Rehearsal Venue: CBSO Centre, Birmingham
Concert Venue: Birmingham Symphony Hall
Programme: Strauss - Eine Alpinesinfonie, Clyne - PALETTE

Who Can Apply?

The CBSO Orchestral Residency is open to advanced instrumentalists, aged 21 (by 31 August 2027) to 25, who are aspiring to a professional orchestral career.

Applicants must be currently living in the UK, and can include international students studying in the UK, subject to appropriate visa permissions.

We particularly encourage applications from those underrepresented in the orchestral sector, including musicians from the Global Majority; deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent musicians; LGBTQ+ musicians; those from lower socio-economic backgrounds; and women and marginalised genders in particular instruments.

Full details of the programme can be found in the CBSO Orchestral Residency Handbook below. Please direct any questions to applications@cbso.co.uk.