QSO Academy 2027

Background

The QSO Academy Program lays the groundwork for aspiring pre-professional musicians to step into an orchestral career through intense preparation and training including masterclasses and lessons with globally renowned artists, mentorship from QSO musicians, and the opportunity to play in chamber and orchestral performances, including mainstage performances, opera and ballet productions and regional programs.

The QSO recognises its essential role in developing the next generation of instrumentalists, especially where the participants can grow into the future permanent musicians of an Orchestra. This Program will further develop the technical skills already present from high-level tertiary study, as well as provide insights into career management and preparation for auditions – helping to develop sustainable and rewarding careers.

Summary of 2027 Program

Commencing in Semester 1 2027, the QSO will accept up to four (4) musicians into the Academy Program on the following instruments. For the avoidance of doubt, the QSO considers Semester 1 to be 1 February – 31 July 2027. There is a strict minimum playing standard and no minimum intake. Only those applicants of suitable playing standard will be considered for a place in the program.

1. Violin (2 positions)
2. Viola
3. Trombone

*Remaining String positions, Flute, Horn and Trumpet positions for the 2027 program have been filled by Queensland Conservatorium/University of Queensland tertiary students.

Academy Participants will receive:

1. Guaranteed minimum inclusion in 40 calls of professional rehearsal and performance experience. Where possible this will be scheduled across a variety of activities, including one Ballet production, one Opera production, one Regional Tour activity and one mainstage Maestro concert performance and one chamber music project (or chamber orchestra project) with permanent members of QSO, however this will also depend on the QSO season schedule.
2. Work experience with the QSO’s Management Team.
3. 2 x Mock Auditions (with two different typical programs for standard orchestral auditions).
4. 2-3 x Workshops on audition repertoire with a group of QSO musicians/mentors
5. 6 x lessons on orchestral excerpts and audition preparation (minimum of two with the relevant section leader and the remainder from any QSO musicians or titled conductors of the Participant’s choice)
6. Presentations on topics such as transition from study to work, audition preparation, managing nerves and health and well-being.
7. Possible masterclasses with guest international soloists/conductors.

Academy Participants will need to be fully available to QSO scheduled activities for the period of the Academy. All rehearsal and performance calls attached to the list of activities above will be the base commitment of each Participant. Any rehearsal and performance calls over and above the lessons, sessions, rehearsal and performance calls (40) listed here will be paid at the QSO casual musician rate.

Auditions

Date:

Tuesday 10 November, 2026

Location:

ABC Studio (QSO), 114 Grey Street

Time:

To be confirmed one week prior to audition

Excerpts:

2-3 standard excerpts and 1 free-choice performance piece. Excerpts will be provided upon receipt of application.

Recorded auditions will be accepted. Please contact [email protected] for further details on recorded audition requirements as soon as possible. All live auditions will be filmed for future reference.

Financial Arrangements

An amount of $15,000 will be paid by QSO to Academy Participants across the program. Payments are made fortnightly.

Eligibility and Requirements

1. The QSO Academy Program is a 6-month commitment and successful candidates will need to be resident in Brisbane from 1 February – 31 July 2027 inclusive.
2. Participants will need to plan any other commitments or further study around the Academy schedule.
3. Applications to audition will be accepted from the following instruments: Violin, Viola and Trombone.
4. Applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit a CV via the musical chairs advert for their instrument below, before 9am Monday 26th October, 2026. Any queries regarding the program or auditions may be directed to [email protected]