Richard Bonynge Orchestral Fellow

Orchestra Victoria is offering two fellowship positions in 2027 available to musicians who have completed Bachelor of Music (Performance) or are at an equivalent or higher standard on an orchestral string instrument (Violin Viola Cello or Double Bass).

The Richard Bonynge Orchestral Fellowship is a pre-professional program designed to provide training for musicians in working with opera and ballet. Orchestra Victoria is a performance partner of Australias national ballet company The Australian Ballet national opera company Opera Australia and state opera company Victorian Opera. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work with Orchestra Victoria under the leadership of a variety of world-class conductors mentored by the orchestras talented and skilled musicians.

The successful candidates will each be employed on a fixed-term contract encompassing the Orchestras seasons with its partner companies from 19 April - 14 November 2027 at the Tutti Level A Salary($81068 per annum pro rata from 1 February 2027 plus superannuation and allowances). The contract term will include a leave period from 20 June - 19 September 2027 inclusive. Further information can be found by downloading the information pack for this position linked here.

Orchestra Victoria offers:
Performance opportunities in the greatest of opera and ballet repertoire
An exciting and friendly working environment
World-class health and wellbeing programs for musicians

Eligibility:
Completed Bachelor of Music or be of an equivalent or higher standard in Violin Viola Cello or Double Bass Performance
Open to Australian and New Zealand citizens and Permanent Residents of Australia
Be aged 18 years or older by the application closing date Thursday 29 October 2026
Candidates must be available to attend their relevant live audition day in person in its entirety

Selection Process:
The selection process for the Richard Bonynge Orchestral Fellowship is a two-stage process outlined below.

Stage 1
Candidates will submit two video recordings of repertoire of their own choice a CV and a short personal statement of up to 500 words submitted with their application form. A selection panel will use these materials to determine the candidates to be invited to undertake Stage 2.

Candidates are able to submit their application CV and personal statement separately and in advance of submitting their video recordings. Upon receipt of the application applicants will receive a copy of their relevant stage 2 excerpt book.

Stage 2
Candidates will undertake a live audition in person in Melbourne on Tuesday 24 November 2026.

Important Dates:

Stage 1 - Recording Submissions:

• All application forms and recorded submissions due: Thursday 29 October 2026
• Results of Stage 1 released to candidates: Friday 6 November 2026

Stage 2 - Live Auditions in Melbourne:

• All instruments: Tuesday 24 November 2026

Audition location:
Orchestra Victoria
7 Blackwood Street
North Melbourne VIC 3051