Czech Philharmonic Viola Third Deputy 2026: Full-Time Prague Audition, Apply by 15 November
Application deadline and nature of the vacancy
The Czech Philharmonic in Prague has announced an audition for viola third deputy, a full-time orchestral position under chief conductor and music director Semyon Bychkov. Applications close on 15 November 2026, with the audition scheduled for 18 December 2026. The starting date is to be agreed with the successful candidate. This is a distinct job from the orchestra's tuba opening, which has a different deadline and has already been separately announced.
Video prescreening requirements
Applications must include a link to a YouTube recording of the specified repertoire, performed live with piano or orchestral accompaniment and recorded within the last year. The viola programme for this vacancy specifies the first movement, exposition and cadenza, of the C. P. Stamitz Viola Concerto, Op. 1, plus an excerpt from Richard Strauss's Don Juan. Candidates should submit recordings of this exact programme rather than a generic viola portfolio.
In-person blind and visible rounds
The first round is performed behind a curtain and includes the Stamitz concerto movement alongside Shostakovich's Seventh Symphony and Strauss orchestral excerpts. The second round is not blind and offers a choice of Bartók, Walton or Hindemith as major concerto repertoire, plus passages by Beethoven, Smetana, Janáček and Czech composers. The official repertoire list is long and detailed; study the published excerpt indications rather than inferring them from a standard orchestra audition book.
Orchestra and employment caveats
The Czech Philharmonic performs at Prague's Rudolfinum and maintains an international profile in Czech and symphonic repertoire. Its official hiring pages explain the selection committee's process, including an optional working period and voting process for permanent appointment. Applicants must confirm the precise contract and any work permit or visa conditions directly with the orchestra. The full-time title does not guarantee an immediately permanent contract or a specific salary without a formal offer.
Official organiser rules and entry
Checked 23 October 2026. Reconfirm the current deadline, repertoire, eligibility, financial conditions and contact details with the organiser before applying.