Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava 2027: International Orchestral Academy, Unpaid Semester
The Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava in the Czech Republic is recruiting participants for its International Orchestral Academy in the spring semester of the 2026–27 season. The academy runs from 1 February to 24 June 2027 and applications close on 29 November 2026. Young violinists, violists, cellists, double bassists and harpists can gain orchestral experience under the mentoring of principal musicians and participate in subscription concerts, recordings and some tours. The programme is an unpaid training placement. Applicants should assess living costs before considering relocation.
Vacancies and programme structure
Sections accepting applicants: first violin, second violin, viola, violoncello, double bass and harp.
Programme period: 1 February–24 June 2027 in Ostrava, Czech Republic.
Application deadline: 29 November 2026; candidates are notified by email on 7 December 2026.
Participants rehearse and play in the orchestra’s concerts and related projects with coaching from section principals.
For harp, individual concert opportunities depend on programming and the principal harpist's assessment; a minimum number of performances is not guaranteed.
Video audition and documents
Candidates must submit video recordings of assigned orchestral excerpts, presented together as one continuous, uncut video following the posted score directions. They must also submit up to ten minutes comprising extracts from two contrasting movements of a solo work of their choice. A CV and contact details are reviewed with the video materials. The official registration portal accepts an uploaded file or a YouTube link, and publishes the individual instrumental repertoire links; use those rather than excerpts from an older academy year.
The financially important distinction
The official academy guidelines explicitly state that no salary, wage or honorarium is paid. Participants must cover all costs of living and attendance: travel to and from Ostrava, housing for the full semester, daily meals, medical and accident insurance, and suitable concert dress. The orchestra calls the placement particularly suitable for eligible Erasmus+ grant recipients; this is not a promise that everyone qualifies for Erasmus+ funding. Before paying for travel, calculate the cost of roughly five months in the Czech Republic and check possible external financial support.
Language, practicalities and safety
The published English programme says English is the working language; its Czech counterpart indicates both Czech and English are used in practice. The role is a temporary training engagement, not a permanent full-time orchestra job. Participation does not automatically grant a visa or immigration permission. Non-EU applicants should ask about invitation letters, entry and health-insurance requirements, and the possibility of programme changes.
Established orchestra and training record
Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava is a long-standing Czech symphony orchestra performing concerts and tours with recognised orchestral conductors. Its academy is run directly from the institution's website, with downloadable repertoire, the current application portal and a named coordinator. The role offers professional rehearsal and ensemble experience, but applicants should not confuse that learning value with financial compensation.
Official application and guidelines
Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava official academy details: https://www.jfo.cz/en/academy/
Current season online application form: https://academy.jfo.cz/
Czech-language rules and harp conditions: https://www.jfo.cz/nabizime/akademie/
Verified 24 October 2026. Czech Republic; deadline 29 November 2026. Unpaid placement, all travel, accommodation, daily living and insurance costs borne by the participant.