News Story
We are thrilled to announce that applications are now open for our new Orchestral Residency, a major national initiative supporting the next generation of orchestral talent. This annual programme will see aspiring musicians play alongside CBSO players and work with world renowned conductors including Edward Gardner (2026), Kazuki Yamada (2027) and Sir Simon Rattle (2028).
Supported by Dunard Fund, the CBSO Orchestral Residency offers exceptional musicians aged 21–25 the rare opportunity to rehearse and perform side-by-side with one of Europe’s leading orchestras. The programme will bring together around 70 CBSO musicians and 70 emerging players for an intensive week of music-making, mentoring, and professional development. Participants will gain first-hand experience of orchestral rehearsal discipline, ensemble playing, and artistic collaboration, alongside workshops covering audition preparation, portfolio careers, and life in a professional orchestra.
The first annual week-long Residency takes place in July 2026 and will culminate in a performance at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall with Edward Gardner, former Principal Guest Conductor of the CBSO and Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Working with young musicians is a fundamental part of my music making, and overwhelmingly inspiring. The curiosity and skill of these players gives me so much, and I know will do the same for the CBSO musicians. I’m thrilled to be reconnecting with the CBSO – we have a wonderful, rich, shared history. The young musicians will have played many mainstream works in their colleges and youth orchestras, but to tackle this extraordinary programme together will fill us all with a sense of ambition and pride.
Edward Gardner, former Principal Guest Conductor of the CBSO and Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra
By creating this opportunity in the heart of the UK, we aim to fill a widening gap in access to high-level orchestral experience. With many international opportunities now harder to reach for young British players, the CBSO Orchestral Residency keeps world-class development within the UK while opening doors to musicians from a wide range of backgrounds.
This Residency reflects our deep belief that orchestral music should be open, dynamic and forward-looking. By creating a pathway for emerging musicians to experience what it means to play at this level, we’re investing in the UK’s future musical life and strengthening the connections between education, opportunity and excellence.
Emma Stenning, CBSO Chief Executive
Through the CBSO Orchestral Fellowship we are creating a truly unique type of orchestra, combined in equal parts of current orchestral musicians and musicians of the future. Learning will happen in all directions, as we help to shape the future of this great art form.
CBSO Music Director Kazuki Yamada
The CBSO Orchestral Residency marks a new chapter in our ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and shaping the future of orchestral music - giving emerging musicians the experience, confidence, and connections to thrive in the profession.
I am thrilled to be returning to Birmingham and the CBSO in 2028 to be part of the CBSO’s Orchestral Residencies. There is astonishing artistry our UK’s orchestras, and it is crucial that we share and develop our expertise, showcasing our collective passion for the power and joy of orchestral music.
Sir Simon Rattle, former Music Director of the CBSO and Chief Conductor of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
Applications for the CBSO Orchestral Residency open in October 2025, with live auditions held across the UK in early 2026. All programme costs, including accommodation, are covered thanks to the support of Dunard Fund and CBSO donors.
