Assistant Principal Bassoon/Contrabassoon

THE POSITION

Assistant Principal Bassoon/Contrabassoon

Currently, the Bassoon Section consists of two musicians, Principal and Assistant Principal/Contrabassoon. As such, the Assistant Principal Bassoon/Contrabassoon currently performs primarily as Second Bassoon, is responsible for Principal Bassoon when the Principal is not in attendance (typically, at least one opera per season), Contrabassoon whenever required, and any other needed parts in the section.

THE CONTRACT

In the 2027/2028 season, players will receive:

· 22-week contract (late September – late April)

· Base rate of $3,346.79/per week (total base pay of $73,629.38)

· Additional 10% Principal overscale pay (additional $7,362.94)

· Additional 18% vacation pay (additional $14,578.62)

· 11.99% pension

· Sick and personal time

· Year-round health and life insurance (including dental and vision)

· Group term life insurance in the amount of $50,000

· Optional pre-taxed deductions for flexible spending, dependent care, and 403(b) retirement savings

· Additional paid performance opportunities through various arms of the company (Lyric Unlimited, Musical Theater Initiative, etc.)

THE AUDITION
Preliminary Rounds

Tuesday, October 27, 2026

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Thursday, October 29, 2026

Semi-Final and Final Rounds

Friday, October 30, 2026

Saturday, October 31, 2026

Note: While the dates reserved for semi-finals and finals will not change, we may not use both days. The final schedule will depend on the number of auditionees advancing from the preliminary round.

A candidate who does not initially advance to the semi-final or final round of auditions may be invited to do so at the conclusion of the preliminary and/or semi-final rounds. This candidate will be notified promptly of their invitation to advance.

Vacancies resulting from the selection of a current Orchestra member for a principal or assistant principal position may be filled at that time by any other player who auditioned in the same final audition.

THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Please send a cover letter, resume, and deposit check for $50.00 to:

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Attn: Orchestra Personnel Manager

Assistant Principal Bassoon/Contrabassoon Audition

20 North Wacker Drive, Ste. 860

Chicago, IL 60606

Your cover letter should include your first, second, and third choice for your audition date. Times will be assigned on a first come, first served basis.

Alternatively, you may submit your cover letter and résumé electronically by replying to this email. Please note that audition times will only be confirmed upon receipt of all requested materials including your $50.00 deposit. Submission of your résumé alone will not guarantee an audition time.

THE DEADLINES
Submission of materials: Postmarked by Tuesday, October 13, 2026

Submissions received after this date will not be accepted for planning purposes.

Cancellations: Except in emergencies, cancellations must be made at least 5 business days prior to your audition date to recoup your deposit.