| I've only ever heard of people being allowed to come play in such a case, never the opposite. If an applicant who's been rejected emails the PM and politely states that they really feel they are qualified for the job, I imagine at least some PM's would find an opening. I suppose, though, that if someone was a real jerk about it, then the PM would be less inclined to make room.
That's not to say it's a sure thing. I'm sure there are some groups that won't budge. But in these days of Matt Muckeys and Carole Jantschs, you have to wonder how committed such a group would be to finding the best player if they are so exclusionary in their invitation practices.
A lot of major orchestras are doing tapes these days, which allows younger players a chance to get in. It's usually only orchestras in the same tier mine is in that "weed out" based on resumes. However, I don't think it's from an inflated sense of place on their part. I think it has much more to do with available space and available time. I'm glad, though, that we'll be able to hear plenty of candidates.
One myth I'd like to take this opportunity to dispel is the one that says "just show up. Then they have to let you play". Every orchestra makes its own rules for how auditions are run. The AF of M ("the union") has recommended procedures, but each orchestra details audition procedures in its own contract. The bottom line is that while they may let you play if you just show up, they probably don't have to. Better, I think, to make your case firmly but politely to the PM. They'll probably accomodate you. |