The Farnborough Symphony Orchestra is committed to maintaining a high standard of musicianship amongst its members. Membership, subject to vacancies, is open to players of Grade 8 standard or higher. The process for selecting new members is described below. This policy applies to all Brass, Woodwind and String recruitment.
1. Advertising of Vacancies
When vacancies arise, they will be advertised publicly for a minimum of four weeks. Notices will be posted on the orchestra’s website and may also be shared through personal contacts or other appropriate media. All applications will be invited on a fair and open basis.
2. Auditions
Where the Committee considers it necessary, applicants may be required to undertake an audition to assess their level of competence. The Committee will determine the composition of the audition panel, taking into account the instrument concerned. The panel will always include the Artistic Director.
3. Shortlisting
The Committee will produce a shortlist of candidates, taking into account:
– any prior knowledge of the applicant’s playing;
– any previous involvement with the orchestra;
– audition performance, where applicable.
4. Trial Period
Shortlisted candidates will be placed ‘on trial’ until a formal appointment is made. Each candidate will be invited to perform in at least one concert and must attend all associated rehearsals. Players on trial who are not already orchestra members in another role will not be required to pay subscriptions during this period.
5. Termination of a Trial
The Committee may terminate a player’s trial at any point if it considers that the player:
– does not meet the required playing standard;
– does not integrate effectively within the orchestral ensemble; or
– demonstrates poor attendance.
6. Appointment
Once all shortlisted candidates have completed their trials, the Committee will select the most suitable player and make a formal offer of appointment. In reaching a decision, the Committee will consider:
– the recommendation of the Artistic Director;
– feedback from key Principals;
– the player’s attendance and commitment during the trial;
– the extent to which the player embraces the orchestra’s ethos.
7. Rank-and-File Positions
For rank-and-file roles (where a single part is shared by multiple players), the Committee may, on the recommendation of the Artistic Director and the relevant Section Leader, waive the requirement for a concert trial and proceed directly to appointment.
8. Exceptional Circumstances
The Committee may, in exceptional cases, appoint a player without advertising the vacancy. This discretion may be exercised where a candidate has demonstrated sustained commitment and reliability – such as through long-term service as a deputy or extra – and where the Committee judges that a full recruitment process would not provide additional benefit to the orchestra.
February 2026
