Sydney Symphony Orchestra 2027 Associate Principal Viola: Worldwide Auditions Close 7 January
The Sydney Symphony Orchestra has announced an audition for Associate Principal Viola, open to applicants of all nationalities. Applications close on Thursday, 7 January 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), with the scheduled audition on Monday, 1 February 2027. A player considering the position should apply for the actual professional orchestral vacancy; this is not a student competition or a remote-only course.
Who may enter and what happens after application?
The orchestra explicitly states that musicians of all nationalities can apply. That does not itself settle any immigration, employment or relocation arrangements for an eventual appointment: these must be clarified with the orchestra if selected. Candidates should complete the official application form and be prepared for professional standards in ensemble playing, leadership and the responsibilities of an associate principal. The position description is downloadable from the employer's page.
Two compulsory viola repertoire groups
All applicants must prepare a classical-period viola concerto first movement with complete cadenzas and the second movement exposition only. The player must also prepare the first movement of one major twentieth-century viola concerto: Walton, Bartók (any edition permitted), or Hindemith's Der Schwanendreher. These are two required groups, not alternatives. The orchestra expects to release excerpts in early December, so verify the final list once issued.
Recorded auditions have a separate deadline
The live audition is scheduled for 1 February 2027. Applicants granted or requesting the recorded-audition option must follow the orchestra's specific instructions and submit the recording by Sunday, 24 January 2027 at 11:59 p.m. AEDT. The official notice says applicants requesting a recording will receive a link by email; do not assume that simply uploading a public performance video replaces the application.
Why the employer is relevant
Sydney Symphony Orchestra is a major professional Australian ensemble based in Sydney, with an established concert programme and a published musician recruitment process. Its direct careers page gives the audition calendar, instrument, repertoire, nationality eligibility and contact address. Salary, contract term and possible relocation support should be confirmed from the position description rather than estimated from another orchestra's conditions.
Application guidance and source
Prepare your professional résumé, check readiness for all required movements, and complete the form before the January deadline. For questions about repertoire or the recorded-audition procedure, the orchestra supplies audition.applications@sydneysymphony.com. Information checked against the orchestra's original announcement on 25 October 2026.
Official source / 公式募集情報 / 主办方公告
Original organizer announcement and application: https://www.sydneysymphony.com/about-us/work-with-us