tpetplyr

In my understanding, the Chicago Symphony pretty much heard everybody: this is in their best interest as they won't accidentally eliminate a great player because of lack of experience. Many other orchestras don't want to take the time involved to hear every applicant so they vet based on resumes.
In addition, getting invited to audition only reflects on your resume. If your resume wasn't strong enough for Cincinnati then they don't care who invited you. What matters is how well you did in that audition.

I can't speak to the American v European bias. I have heard that it is easier for a European to get a job in America than for an American to win a job in Europe, but that is just hearsay. I don't know.

Stuart