Dallas Symphony Orchestra Diversity Fellowship

As part of our ongoing objective to further deepen our existing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiatives, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is committed to building an inclusive symphony orchestra which more directly reflects the ideas and culture of its surrounding communities. With this in mind, the DSO is proud to unveil its inaugural DSO Diversity Fellowship.

The deadline for the 23/24 application has now passed.

The DSO Diversity Fellowship is a pre-professional training program for gifted early-career symphonic musicians who represent historically underrepresented populations. At its heart, this program focuses on nurturing and enriching the career development of the Fellows and on preparing these musicians to compete for, and, ultimately, win positions in major professional orchestras.

After a thorough, blind audition process, led by Musicians and Staff of the DSO, up to three Fellows will be selected to participate in this exceptional program. Fellows will contribute in a rigorous, well-rounded curriculum which will include orchestral performance, mock auditions, masterclasses, private lessons, Young Strings teaching, and chamber music. Each Fellow will also be assigned a personal Mentor, who will assist, guide, and empower them as they navigate audition preparation and career training.

Recognizing that artistic excellence manifests in many forms and that an orchestra which is representative of the rich and varied perspectives of its entire community has value, the DSO can build off of our already remarkable achievements within the Young Strings and Young Musicians programs. Through this Fellowship, the DSO has an incredible opportunity to be a leader in transforming the landscape of the industry.

Program Overview

• One-season fellowship, with potential for renewal of a second year
• Fellow(s) rehearse and perform 25 weeks within the Orchestra (Classical Subscription, Pops, New music
• Minimum annual pay equivalent to 25 weeks at orchestra base scale (weekly base scale = $1950.01)
• Benefits (life, health, dental, disability, and instrument insurance)
• Allowance for relocation to Dallas
• Hotel/travel stipend for auditions, professional development, AFM membership
• One-on-one mentorship with DSO Musician
• Masterclasses and mock auditions with DSO Musicians
• Private lessons with DSO Musicians
• Opportunity to observe DSO Auditions and assist behinds the scenes with auditions
• Opportunities to engage with the DSO’s Young Strings, and other Education and Community Outreach Programs and Hospital Partnerships

How To Apply

The DSO Diversity Fellowship is open to all instrument groups.

Interested applicants should submit a one-page resume, completed application form, and recording (audio only) to auditions@dalsym.com by Friday, May 19, 2023. Click here for the application form.

All candidates who attend the Live Audition will be reimbursed for travel and hotel expenses.

Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States.

DSO Diversity Fellowship Live Round Repertoire List

“The DSO is taking a proactive step to advance diversity in orchestras. By providing performance, mentorship and training to musicians from underrepresented communities, we’re not only helping to create a more representative and inclusive orchestra, but we’re also enriching the cultural landscape of our city and beyond.”

Kim Noltemy, Ross Perot President & CEO

“Being an orchestral musician requires years of dedicated practice, study and rehearsal as well as a significant investment of time, energy and money. Even then, the competition for a limited number of positions is fierce. The DSO is committing wholly to remove barriers for everyone to be part of the global orchestra community. The addition of the Diversity Fellowship Program adds a professional development piece to the current student programs and work within the community to reflect our city.”

George Nickson, Principal Percussion (Marge & William H. Seay Chair) and Chair of the Orchestra Committee