trumpjosh

I thought if it was an AFM union this was not the case. I'm mostly just curious and not wanting to start an argument, but does anyone know this definitively either way?

robertwhite

Actually, Josh, I think I can tell you quite definitively that there is nothing in the AF of M bylaws governing auditions for Symphonic ensembles. There is, however, a Code of Ethical Practices for Auditions put forth by ICSOM, one of the player's conferences subsidiary to the AF of M:

http://www.icsom.org/miscellany/auditioncode.html

If you read it, you will see that all it says about screening of applicants is this:
And this:

Orchestras make their own rules about how exclusionary they want to be (or not be) based on applicants' resumes. It's up to the candidate to represent themselves, so that is what the initial decisions are based upon.


On another note: as far as the split committee thing goes - I'm sure many players won't like it. I know I wouldn't particularly like it. But the purpose is to simply hear more candidates. You needn't worry about playing in a "small room". Our rehearsal hall is quite roomy and resonant. Actually, it's where I played my prelim round when I won this job.

robertwhite

By the way, I saw another resume guide on the AF of M website. If you are a member, you can look under "Symphonic Services for Members Only" to find a helpful guide and a template for an orchestral resume and cover letter.

trumpjosh

Robert -

Thanks for the replies. I'll be there and playing my best. Not much more that I can do, is there?

Cheers,
Josh

robertwhite

In case anyone's interested, here's an update on the format for this Sunday/Monday's Charlotte Symphony audition.

We are expecting about 90 players at this point, so we won't need to split the committee after all. All prelims will be in our rehearsal hall, and subsequent rounds will be "on the stage". As always, all rounds will be behind a screen (incl. finals).

Looking forward to hearing those of you that are coming. Best wishes!

Bob