Concertmaster

Queensland Symphony Orchestra; Brisbane; On-site; AUD 80,000 - 140,000; Part time

Job summary

Queensland Symphony Orchestra in Brisbane seeks a Concertmaster for a three-year fixed-term appointment with a trial and probation period. The role includes leading the First Violin section, coordinating bowings, and representing the orchestra in rehearsals and performances.

Substantial leadership and solo recital responsibilities are involved. The position requires negotiating percentage of full-time hours (50–75%) and a salary accordingly, with comprehensive instrument insurance and leave

Qualifications

• Experience as concertmaster or principal first violin.
• Strong leadership and rehearsal skills.
• Ability to lead and coordinate bowings and sections.
• Willingness to undergo pre-trial and trial process.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct the orchestra as agreed with management.
• Prepare bowings for the first violins and liaise with Section Principals.
• Oversee activities of the orchestra and participate in auditions and meetings.
• Maintain professional appearance and behaviour during performances and rehearsals.
• rostering and seating allocation for the first violin section.

Skills

Concertmaster leadership

Orchestral leadership

Bowings preparation

Tuning orchestras

Auditions participation

Job description

Three year fixed-term opportunity (with the possibility of renewal)

Exceptional musicians are invited to apply for the role of Concertmaster with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

Position

Concertmaster

Tenure and Remuneration

Three-year fixed term contract with the possibility of renewal, subject to successful completion of a 4-week trial and interview. The contract includes a 6-month probation period. The position will be required to play between 50% (26 weeks) and 75% (34 weeks) of QSO programs and attend meetings as required.

Percentage of full-time hours and salary to be negotiated with the successful candidate.

QSO provides a comprehensive instrument insurance scheme, plus instrument upkeep, clothing allowances and statutory leave entitlements.

Eligibility

This position is open to Australian and New Zealand citizens and those with Australian permanent residency status.

Section Structure

The First Violin section will be comprised of one Concertmaster, one Associate Concertmaster, one Principal First Violin, one Assistant Principal First Violin and 10 Section first violins.

Closing date

23rd March 2027 (due date for applications and for submission of CV and recording)

Location

Brisbane, Queensland

Selection Process

Musicians interested in the position should submit an expression of interest, including CV and recordings addressing the requirements outlined above.

A panel of QSO musicians will review all submissions at the end of March 2027, with the shortlisted candidates invited to an informal interview with a small panel. Interviews may be conducted online.

Following the interview process, selected candidates may be invited to undertake a pre-trial period with the orchestra.

Pre-trial Process

Selected Candidates will be required to complete a pre-trial of four consecutive weeks. A shorter pre-trial, or non-consecutive weeks, can be considered upon request. This pre-trial period will include a range of different projects that are typical to the orchestra’s schedule, as well as an interview with a small panel. During this period candidates will also be required to perform a recital to the members of the QSO. Candidates will receive the detailed recital requirements, and the date/time will be scheduled well in advance of the trial.

Recital requirements may include but will not be limited to the following:

• Excerpt of a set concerto
• 5-8 minute own choice piece
• Orchestral excerpts
• Leading and directing a QSO ensemble from the Concertmaster chair

As the QSO will be conducting multiple pre-trials throughout 2027, candidates will be informed post their pre-trial period of whether or not they are still in process. Final results of the pre-trial process will be advised once all candidates have completed their pre-trial; this could be as late as the end of 2027.

Position Description

General Duties

• work in accordance with the terms of this agreement, and
• play the instrument(s) for which the musician was auditioned.

Additional Duties

• oversee and participate in all activities of the orchestra as agreed with orchestra management
• lead the orchestra
• prepare bowings for the first violins and liaise with other string Section Principals for appropriate bowings
• prepare and play relevant repertoire solos
• take responsibility for tuning the orchestra
• consult with the Conductor on musical and artistic matters
• maintain a fully professional appearance and behaviour whilst performing and rehearsing
• participate in auditions, trial assessment meetings, consultative, orchestral and artistic meetings as required
• not unreasonably refuse to be available for meetings with orchestra management and colleagues to discuss job-related issues
• undertake promotional activities as agreed
• meet with orchestra management to discuss artistic, program and administrative matters
• take responsibility for rostering and allocation of seating for the first violin section
• consult with section members as appropriate
• take responsibility for general orchestral discipline
• conduct the orchestra as agreed with orchestra management andparticipate in monitoring the musical standard of the orchestra

About QSO

As one of the largest performing arts companies in Queensland and the state’s only professional symphony orchestra, Queensland Symphony Orchestra plays a vital role in Queensland’s cultural community, educating; mentoring aspiring performers; touring regional centres; broadcasting, and performing with state, national and international ballet and opera companies. Queensland Symphony Orchestra is passionate about commissioning new Australian works and continues to invest in collaborations, recordings, and digital initiatives.