Vacancies orchestra
Being part of the Gürzenich Orchestra means performing in one of Germany’s most traditional yet innovative ensembles.
It requires the highest level of musical precision and the ability to bring a diverse repertoire—from classical to contemporary music—to life through harmonious collaboration.
We offer talented musicians the opportunity to become part of a renowned ensemble and work in an inspiring and creative environment. As a member of the Gürzenich Orchestra, you will not only have the chance to perform at the highest musical level but also benefit from a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities within a dynamic team. Join a prestigious institution with a strong future perspective.
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.
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
Assistant Principal 2nd Violin
Starting January 1, 2026 | Level 3 responsibility allowance
Audition:
Pre-audition: Thursday, 30 April 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
Main audition: Wednesday, 6 May 2026, 10 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 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.
Piccolo Flute with Obligation to 2nd/3rd Flute
Available immediately | Level 2 responsibility allowance + 50% of Level 3
Audition date to be announced.
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 Cologne
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:
Round A: Tue, September 23, 2025, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Round B: Wed, September 24, 2025, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne Information A & B Round
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:
Pre-audition: Monday, March 02, 2026, 10 a.m. Uhr at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
main audition: Tuesday, March 03, 2026, 6 p.m. at Stolberger Str. 3, 50933 Cologne
2. and additional low horns with a commitment to the Wagner tuba.
As of 1 November 2026, level 3 activity allowance.
Audition:
Pre-audition: Saturday, 23 May 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Main audition: Tuesday, 26 May 2026, 6 p.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
Tenor trombone – Academy
Starting 1 September 2026, initially for one year with the option to extend for another year
Audition:
Monday, 27 April 2026, 10 a.m. at Stolberger Straße 3, 50933 Cologne
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 Cologne
Flute - 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