Chamber concert by the RSB Orchestra Academy

At the music conservatories around the world, students learn to master their instrument or voice technically and artistically, and to interpret music skillfully. However, what can only be taught to a limited extent is how to play or sing and the general interaction within a large ensemble, which for many graduates becomes part of their professional life later on. To bridge this gap, an increasing number of orchestras and choirs are offering specialized training programs. At the RSB, the Orchestra Academy for String Players was founded in 2002 at the initiative of the orchestra’s friends and supporters.

Students from all over the world apply for the thirteen scholarships, which are awarded for two years to promising talents under 26 years of age. In the 2018/2019 season, musicians from ten different nations were represented in the academy, highlighting the diverse nature of the orchestra.

The members of the academy are assigned to orchestral duties just like the full-time colleagues, playing in rehearsals and concerts, as well as recording CDs and going on tour. In their section, they each have a dedicated contact person. These mentors provide guidance, constructive criticism, lessons, and share their own experiences. In this way, the academy members are strengthened as artists and learn a great deal about working within an artistic collective. Regular workshops are held where topics outside the musical repertoire are addressed. For example, they receive training in audition preparation, concert program dramaturgy, music education for children and adults, or musician health. Once a year, the members of the Orchestra Academy perform a chamber concert.

For many academy members, their time at the RSB serves as a real career springboard, enabling them to secure positions in renowned national and international ensembles—sometimes even during their time in the academy—and to begin their professional lives with more confidence, often continuing within the RSB itself.