Substitute Musicians
The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is now accepting video auditions from qualified applicants for all orchestral instruments for our Substitute lists.
The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is a per-service regional orchestra. Base rate for the 2023-2024 season is at $90 per service. Additional compensation includes travel reimbursement up to $240 for Masterworks concert cycles and $180 for Chamber, Pops, and Education concert cycles. Housing accommodations are also provided for free, upon request.
Substitute auditions should be submitted per the instructions below. All applicants must already possess all documentation that allows them to work legally in the United States (for foreign nationals, such documents might include a green card or an F-1 student visa with ability to do Curricular Practical Training, etc). Successful applicants will then be contacted as we have need for your services.
To apply please send a one-page orchestral resume (in PDF format) along with link(s) to video sample(s) of your playing to Orchestra Manager & Librarian, Bethany Freesen at bfreesen@ilsymphony.org.
Application Requirements: Please include 3 contrasting standard orchestral excerpts and the exposition of a standard concerto (accompaniment not necessary). (The three excerpts must be recorded in one continuous take.) All recordings must be unedited, have a stationary camera angle, and should have been recorded in the past 6 months. We strongly recommend that your selections be recorded at the highest quality possible. For wind and brass players wishing to be considered for auxiliary instruments, please include 3 additional excerpts for each auxiliary instrument.
Video Formatting: Videos should be uploaded to either a file-sharing site or YouTube. Note that videos will only be viewed by the Music Director, Section Principal and Orchestra Manager and will not be shared.
For any questions regarding Substitute Musician audition applications please feel free to contact:
Bethany Freesen
Orchestra Manager & Librarian
Illinois Symphony Orchestra
bfreesen@ilsymphony.org