Concertmaster - Expressions of Interest

Exceptional musicians are invited to apply for the role of Concertmaster with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

Tenure:

Three-year fixed term contract with the possibility of renewal, subject to successful completion of a 4-week trial and interview. The contract includes a 6-month probation period. The position will be required to play between 50% (26 weeks) and 75% (34 weeks) of QSO programs and attend meetings as required.

Percentage of full-time hours and salary to be negotiated with the successful candidate.

QSO provides a comprehensive instrument insurance scheme, plus instrument upkeep, clothing allowances and statutory leave entitlements.

Eligibility:

This position is open to Australian and New Zealand citizens and those with Australian permanent residency status.

How to apply:

Please submit the following (by COB on the closing date as outlined below) via Musical Chairs:

Your CV with relevant orchestral experience, including referees and contact details.
A recorded submission as outlined below

Recording submission requirements:

Solo (with piano or orchestral accompaniment)

MOZART – Violin concerto No.3, 4 or 5 exposition with cadenza

And

Orchestral Excerpts (performed solo):

MENDELSSOHN, Midsummer Night’s Dream: Scherzo (bar 17 - 99)

TCHAIKOVSKY, Swan Lake: Black Swan

BACH, J.S., St. Matthew Passion: Erbarme dich

STRAUSS, R., Ein Heldenleben: (figure [22] – [32])

Excerpts are attached as a PDF document to the Musical Chairs listing

Closing date:

23rd March 2027 - Application and Submission of CV and Recording

Selection Process:

Musicians interested in the position should submit an expression of interest, including CV and recordings addressing the requirements outlined above.

A panel of QSO musicians will review all submissions at the end of March 2027, with the shortlisted candidates invited to an informal interview with a small panel. Interviews may be conducted online.

Following the interview process, selected candidates may be invited to undertake a pre-trial period with the orchestra.

Pre-Trial Process:

Selected Candidates will be required to complete a pre-trial of four consecutive weeks. A shorter pre-trial, or non-consecutive weeks, can be considered upon request. This pre-trial period will include a range of different projects that are typical to the orchestra’s schedule, as well as an interview with a small panel. During this period candidates will also be required to perform a recital to the members of the QSO. Candidates will receive the detailed recital requirements, and the date/time will be scheduled well in advance of the trial.

Recital requirements may include but will not be limited to the following:

Excerpt of a set concerto
5-8 minute own choice piece
Orchestral excerpts
Leading and directing a QSO ensemble from the Concertmaster chair
As the QSO will be conducting multiple pre-trials throughout 2027, candidates will be informed post their pre-trial period of whether or not they are still in process. Final results of the pre-trial process will be advised once all candidates have completed their pre-trial; this could be as late as the end of 2027.

Position description:

Attached as a PDF document to the Musical Chairs listing.

Further enquiries:

Direct to Orchestra Management at: recruit@qso.com.au

Unsolicited recruitment agency CVs will not be accepted.