How can you get in a Broadway orchestra?

Answer 1

You have to have a masters degree in music and you have to be well recognized in the music world. They orchestra conductors call you, you don't audition. They have to call you theirselves.

This is not correct. Many Broadway musicians have no degrees at all. It is all about making connections, getting a shot as a sub, and consistently nailing the show. Many young musicians start by taking lessons with existing Broadway musicians. Top students will get an opportunity to sub. They must nail the show each and every time. They must also musically and personally connect with surrounding musicians. Broadway pits are physically small and often very crowded. Musicians must get along. It is difficult when they don't. I sat between two guys who did not get along for years. The contractor new I could handle it. Which is the final piece. Conductors may request a particular musician, but there is a musical contractor that hires the musicians. In New York City there are basically three contractors that contract all the shows. Section leaders often have a say as to whom they want to work with. I am a Trombone player. Trumpet players began requesting me after many subbing experiences. I pride myself in being able to follow any lead trumpet player. They are all unique and I can adapt. I am asked often who I want to play in my trombone section with me. The musicians union still has a strong presence in the Broadway pit. Minimum orchestra sizes have been reduced over the past twenty years depending on the show/orchestration. Yet, there is still a reasonable amount of work. I will say that you have a better shot of being a professional athlete or brain surgeon than a Broadway musician, so persistence and patience will be a must.

Answer 2

To get into a professional orchestra you need to be very commited to your instrument. You need to be able to commit the necessary amount of time to be at rehearsals and concerts. Because you get paid to be in the orchestra, you need to earn your money. All professional orchestras hold an audition process. Each orchestra works differently. Some orchestras hold auditions every year while others only hold auditions when someone leaves. Some orchestras hold special auditions for principal players. In other words, when the principal of a section leaves, there will be a "competition" for those interested in replacing him/her. Once you've found out when you can audition for the orchestra, figure out what pieces, scales, and excerpts you need to learn. Listen to recordings of the pieces that the excerpts come from and become familar with the style, tempo, and musical interpretation. Practice frequently!!! Some orchestras might require you to prepare a resume. Make sure you list any orchestras you've played with in the past, previous work experiences, degrees you have, awards you have won, etc. Remeber to include references! If you got in, make sure you know when all rehearsals and concerts are. It is crucial that you attend each and every rehearsal/concert unless you have a darn good reason not to. If you are sloppy with attendance, you will not be famillar with the repertoire and you will hold back the whole group. Plus, you could get fired. If you are a busy person, you will need to prioritize. If you did not get in, don't be discouraged. You might be an alternate player. If a player is unable to attend a concert, you might be asked to take their place. Alternatively, if the orchestra is playing a piece that requires more musicians, you might be asked to play in that concert. Nevertheless, use this audition experience to help you in the future. Keep auditioning for orchestras and you will gain experience! Generally, for professional orchestras, once you've successfully auditioned you needn't to audition again in upcoming years. If you do need to re-audition be aware that just because you were in the orchestra one year, doesn't necessary guarantee you a spot in the next year's orchestra!

Answer 3

To join an orchestra, pass the audition.

Answer 4

It's most commonly through an audition.