Orchestra Academy

RSB Orchesterakadmie 2020 © Robert Niemeyer — RSB Orchestra Academy © Robert Niemeyer

In the beginning – a dream

To become a professional orchestral musician – a dream of many young musicians. While skills such as instrumental technique and soloistic interpretation are studied in depth during their studies, students are often lacking in practical experience in orchestral playing. The Orchestra Academy for Strings was established in 2002 at the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin (RSB) upon an initiative by the friends and supporters of the orchestra. Currently, 13 scholarships for two years each are awarded to young musicians under 26 years of age, accepting applications from students from around the world. The students make their contribution by enriching the diversity of the RSB.

“In chamber music, you learn how to play together and interact, but to develop the ability to fit into a collective sound – you can only achieve this by playing in an orchestra. And the Academy offers you that chance!”(Juliane Färber, 2nd Violin)

How does the Academy work?

The members of the Academy are required to play normal orchestra sessions and play side-by-side with permanent colleagues of the orchestra in rehearsals, concerts and tours, as well as CD recordings. Each Academy member is assigned a mentor from their instrument section. The mentors support the students of the Academy by sharing their experience through one-on-one lessons giving advice and constructive criticism.
The “academists” are thus strengthened as artistic personalities, but above all they develop a concept of an artistic collective. Regular workshops away from the usual performances and rehearsals complete the training. This includes, for example, coachings for audition preparation, or lectures on subjects such as dramaturgy of concert programmes, music education for children and adults, as well as occupational health issues. Once a year, the academy students give a chamber music concert, which will take place this season on 8 October 2020 at the silent green in Wedding, Berlin.

“It is only after prospective musicians are offered an academy position in a professional orchestra that they gain a long-term insight into the practices of the profession they strive to enter. The conservatoire alone cannot reveal whether the profession ultimately suits the student (and whether the student suits an orchestra).”(Andreas Kipp, Cello)

RSB Akademisten © Robert Niemeyer — RSB academists © Robert Niemeyer

“The outstanding workshops are a great way to help you reduce your performance anxiety and develop a healthy posture when playing both in an orchestra and as a soloist.”(Richard Polle, 1st Violin)

For many members of the Academy, their time at the RSB acts as an important stepping stone in their careers. Many go on to acquire positions – some even whilst still enrolled in the Academy – in renowned national and international ensembles to start their professional careers with a solid footing. Some even stay on to become a permanent member of the RSB.