QSO Academy 2026

Queensland Symphony Orchestra is seeking applications for the 2026 QSO Academy Program. The Program will run from 2 February - 26 July 2026. Some string positions for the 2026 program have been filled in first round tertiary auditions with our program partners at Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium and University of Queensland and second round auditions are now open for Violin, Flute, French Horn and Trumpet vacancies.

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. 

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, opera and ballet productions and regional programs.

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.

The QSO recognizes its essential role in developing the next generation of instrumentalists, especially where the participants can grow into future permanent musicians of the Orchestra.

Auditions

Date: Tuesday 14 October 2025
Location: ABC Studio (QSO), 114 Grey Street, Brisbane
Time: To be confirmed one week prior to audition
Excerpts 2 - 3 standard excerpts and 1 free-choice performance piece. Excerpts are available for download through Musical Chairs at the application links below.

Recorded auditions will be accepted. Please contact recruit@qso.com.au as soon as possible for further details on recorded audition requirements. All live auditions will be filmed for future reference.

2026 Program Summary

Commencing in February 2026, the QSO will accept up to eight (8) musicians into the Academy Program on the following instruments.

1. Violin (2 positions)
2. Viola*
3. Cello*
4. Double Bass*
5. Flute
6. French Horn
7. Trumpet

*Viola, Cello and Double Bass positions for the 2026 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 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. Participants may also be offered additional casual work with QSO throughout the program, where possible and appropriate.

Financial Arrangements

An amount of $15,000 will be paid by QSO to Academy Participants in recognition of the calls scheduled, averaged across the duration of 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 reside in Brisbane from 2 February - 26 July 2026 inclusive.
2. Applications to audition will be accepted from the following instruments: Violin, Flute, French Horn and Trumpet.
3. Applicants must be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident or New Zealand citizen.

Interested applicants should submit a CV via Musical Chairs at the links below before COB Monday 6 October 2025. Any queries regarding the program or auditions may be directed to recruit@qso.com.au.