Section Musician First Violin

Exceptional musicians are invited to apply for the role of Tutti First Violin with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

Position: Section Musician First Violin

Remuneration: Salary range of AUD$78,792-$91,681 plus 12% superannuation. QSO also provides a comprehensive instrument insurance scheme, plus instrument upkeep and clothing allowances. The Orchestra enjoys generous leave entitlements that include five weeks’ annual leave plus a paid mid-year break of a minimum of nine days.

Eligibility: This position is a full-time position and is open to both Australian and non-Australian residents willing to relocate to Brisbane, Queensland. Non-Australian candidates would need to satisfy Australian visa requirements.

Tenure: Permanent full time, subject to successful completion of a 6-month trial period.

Section structure: The First Violin section will be comprised of one Concertmaster position, two Associate Concertmasters, one Principal First Violin and ten Section Musician First Violins.

How to apply: Please submit your CV with relevant orchestral experience and contact details as soon as possible via Musical Chairs. The first round of auditions will be conducted entirely via recorded auditions, also to be submitted via Musical Chairs.

Closing date / Recordings due: Wednesday, 17 September 2025

Audition date: Wednesday, 17 December 2025 (selected applicants only)

Location: ABC Building, South Brisbane

Selection Process

Interested musicians are required to submit a CV with relevant experience and contact details as well as a recording of the first round set work and orchestral excerpts.

Please see the recording requirements below.

Applicants shortlisted through to the second round will receive details regarding the audition within 7 days of the closing date. The second (and third) audition rounds will be held on the 17th of December in Brisbane and successfully shortlisted candidates are encouraged to attend in person, however recordings will be accepted.

An accompanist will be provided for live auditions.

First Round (Recorded Audition Requirements)

Set work (to be played with piano accompaniment)

First movement of Mozart Concerto 3, 4 or 5 – exposition with cadenza

AND

Orchestral Excerpts from (to be performed solo):

BEETHOVEN      Symphony No.9, 3rd movement

BRAHMS            Symphony No.4, 4th movement

MAHLER             Symphony No.6 in A minor, Tragic, 1st movement

PROKOFIEV        Classical Symphony, Op.25, 4th movement

VERDI                 La Forza del Destino: Overture

Excerpts will be available for download upon registration via the application portal.

Should candidates be successful in progressing to the live subsequent rounds on the 17th of December, further set works and orchestral excerpts will be provided closer to the date.

Further enquiries

Direct to Orchestra Management at: recruit@qso.com.au

No unsolicited recruitment agencies’ CVs will be accepted.

Position Description

The general duties and work requirements of a Section Musician are to:

• work in accordance with the terms of this agreement
• play the instrument(s) for which the musician was auditioned
• mark parts and convey all relevant information consistent with Section Principals’ instructions in a concise and timely manner
• maintain a fully professional appearance and behaviour whilst on duty
• participate in the relevant musical responsibilities of the section
• follow the directions of the Section Principals in all matters

A section musician may also be required to perform the following duties:

• perform higher duties, if willing
• play in combinations of seven or less, separate from an orchestral performance, if willing
• play off-stage at the conductor’s direction
• undertake preparation of relevant parts in advance of the first rehearsal
• rehearse and perform relevant parts as required
• participate in auditions, trial assessment meetings, consultative, orchestral and artistic meetings, as required
• not unreasonably refuse to be available for meetings with CEO or HODs/Orchestra Management and colleagues to discuss job-related issues
• undertake promotional activities consistent with the player’s capacity as a professional musician and as agreed.

The parties agree that when considering the appropriateness of these additional duties, the artistic standards of the orchestra shall not be compromised.

You may review the responsibilities of musicians in our current 2025 Musicians’ Agreement.

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 culturalcommunity, 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.