Orchestral & Ensemble Musician
Funding
Institutional budgets · Ticket revenue · Endowments · Public funding (varies)
Structure
Audition-based · Contracted or tenured ensemble positions
Credentials
Elite technical mastery · Successful audition record
Responsibilities
Performing rehearsals and concerts
Maintaining repertoire
Practicing at a professional level
Touring or outreach performances
Pros
Stable contracts (when tenured) · Strong benefits and pensions · High artistic standards
Challenges
Extremely competitive auditions · Limited geographic flexibility · Narrow repertoire focus