CBSO Orchestral Residency
CBSO Orchestral Residency
A programme designed by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra to support young musicians taking the next steps towards a professional orchestral career.
The CBSO Orchestral Residency offers exceptional young musicians aged 21 to 25 the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside one of Europe’s leading symphony orchestras, directed by some of the most inspiring conductors of our time. We will create a unique orchestra for each annual residency, made up in equal parts of CBSO musicians and young musicians aspiring to join the ranks of our profession
The programme will consist of an intensive residential week of activity in July every year, culminating in a concert at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall. It combines incredible music-making with networking, mentoring, and professional development — giving musicians real insight into the life of a modern orchestral player.
ABOUT THE 2026 RESIDENCY
Participants will:
- Be conducted by Edward Gardner, former Principal Guest Conductor of the CBSO and Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra
- Perform ambitious, large-scale works
- Play in one of the most iconic orchestral concert halls in the world – Birmingham’s Symphony Hall
- Rehearse and perform side by side with CBSO musicians
- Receive mentorship and sectional coaching from CBSO players, gaining first-hand experience of professional rehearsal discipline, ensemble communication, and artistic collaboration
- Take part in career-focused workshops covering audition preparation, portfolio careers, and orchestral life
Dates: 13 - 17 July 2026
Conductor: Edward Gardner
Rehearsal Venue: CBSO Centre, Birmingham
Concert Venue: Birmingham Symphony Hall
Accommodation in Birmingham is provided (including 17 July 2026)
Programme:
Varèse, Ionisation
Varèse, Amériques
Adams, Harmonielehre
How to apply
The CBSO Orchestral Residency is open to advanced instrumentalists, aged 21 (by 1 July 2026) to 25, who are aspiring to a professional orchestral career. We will accept applications from the following instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone (both tenor and bass), Tuba, Percussion and Harp. See the CBSO Orchestral Residency Application Handbook for more information about how to apply.
Auditions will be held in two rounds, taking place in November and December 2025.
Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 12pm on Monday 17 November 2025.
