Musicians
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Musicians
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has approximately 100 full-time permanent orchestra members, and employs over 100 casual musicians every year.
The Orchestra typically works for eight to ten 'calls' per week, which may be rehearsals, recordings or performances. For example, in a typical Master Series week the Orchestra will rehearse a new program on Tuesday morning and afternoon, Wednesday morning and afternoon, with a final dress rehearsal on Thursday morning before concerts on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Days between programs may involve work such as auditions or meetings. The next Tuesday will bring a new set of pieces, and often a new conductor. Players are responsible for preparing their own parts prior to the first rehearsal, so much of their time is spent in private practice in addition to the actual rehearsals.
In most cases, musicians own their own instruments, though the Orchestra supplies (and transports) most of the large and unusual ones.
