Vacancies
Become part of the Gürzenich Orchestra
Combine artistic fulfilment with professional inspiration. Here, musical excellence meets a rich history that has made the orchestra famous far beyond Cologne. The opportunity to work with internationally renowned conductors and soloists constantly opens up new artistic horizons. At the same time, the close connection to the city of Cologne fosters a special sense of community, which is palpable through regular concerts, projects and the enthusiasm of the audience. In this inspiring environment, music is not merely played, but passionately lived.
We offer talented musicians the chance to become part of a renowned ensemble and to perform at the highest level – in a creative, inspiring environment. The team behind the scenes also makes a decisive contribution to the orchestra’s success, whether in marketing, organisation or other areas.
With us, you can contribute your talents, develop your skills and, together with a dedicated team, help make the orchestra an institution renowned for musical excellence, creativity and innovation – both on stage and behind the scenes.
Vacancies
Orchestra
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Notice
Compensation is based on the in-house collective agreement of the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne (above standard rates). Participation in the audition requires a written invitation, which will also include details on audition and orchestral excerpts.
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1st Coordinated Concertmaster (2)
Starting September 1, 2025 | Special contract / Reduced service obligations
Audition:
Audition date to be announced.
1st Violin Tutti (5 Positions)
Available immediately
Pre-audition: Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
Main audition: Friday, June 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne -
Deputy Principal Viola
Pre-audition: Monday, June 15, 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
Main audition: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 CologneAssistant Principal Viola
Available immediately, 100%, Level 3 responsibility allowance
Pre-audition: Monday, June 15, 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
Main audition: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne -
Principal Cello (Coordinated)
Starting October 1, 2025 | 100% position
Audition:
Mon. May 04, 2026, 10 a.m.at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Tue. May, 05, 2026, 10 a.m.at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Assistant Principal Cellist
starting 1 March 2027, level 2 activity allowance
Audition dates will be announced.
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Piccolo Flute with Obligation to 2nd/3rd Flute
Available immediately | Level 2 responsibility allowance + 50% of Level 3
Audition date to be announced.
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Principal Oboe
Starting March 1, 2025 | Level 1 responsibility allowance
Knowledge of and interest in playing the oboe d’amore are desired.
Audition:
A-round: Tuesday, october 06, 2026, at 6 p.m. Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
B-round: Tuesday, october 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 CologneApply now Information A & Round
2nd/3rd Oboe with Obligation to English Horn
Starting August 28, 2025 | Level 3 responsibility allowance, Knowledge of and interest in playing the oboe d’amore are desired.
Audition:
Main audition: Wednesday, May 28, 2026 6 p.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne -
Solo Clarinet (A/B Clarinet) – “German System”
Available immediately | Level 1 responsibility allowance
Audition:
Audition date to be announced -
Principal Bassoon
Starting November 1, 2025, with level 1 activity allowance
Audition date to be announced
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1. Solo horn with responsibility for 3rd and 5th horn as well as B-flat Wagner tuba
From 1 April 2026, level 1 activity allowance, plus 50% of level 3
Knowledge of and interest in playing the natural horn are desirable.Audition date to be announced
2. and additional low horns with a commitment to the Wagner tuba.
As of 1 November 2026, level 3 activity allowance.
Audition date to be announced
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Violin - Academy (2)
Starting 1 September 2026, initially for one year with the option to extend for another year
Audition:
Monday. 29.06.2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 CologneFlute - Academy
Starting 15 october 2026, initially for one year with the option to extend for another year
Audition:
Tuesday, 9. June 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Cello - Academy
Starting 1 November 2026, initially for one year with the option to extend for another year
Audition:
Thursday. 02.07.2026, 6 p.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Management
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We currently have no vacancies.
