The Estonian National Symphony Orchestra (ERSO), the country’s flagship symphonic ensemble, has opened the application window for its next concertmaster. The role, shared by two leaders, offers a demanding yet richly rewarding career in the heart of Estonia’s vibrant classical scene.
About ERSO
With 101 musicians and a weekly concert schedule that includes international tours, ERSO is renowned for its versatile repertoire—from canonical symphonies to contemporary works. The orchestra partners with world‑class conductors and soloists, and collaborates with leading record labels, cementing its reputation as Estonia’s cultural flagship.
The Concertmaster Role
- Dual Leadership: Two concertmasters share podium duties, resulting in roughly 110 podium days per season.
- Diverse Responsibilities: Section management, jury work, principal forums, and publicity duties.
- Artistic Opportunities: Solo performances, chamber‑music collaborations, and guest‑soloist engagements.
- Compensation: €3,166 gross per month (or €4,230 if the applicant pays social tax).
- Leave: 35 holiday days annually.
- Start Date: Earliest availability in 2027.
Audition Structure
- Video Round
- Deadline: 1 Sept 2026
- Submit CV and application to audition@erso.ee with subject “Concertmaster”.
- Record a single‑camera video (un‑edited) performing:
- Beethoven’s “Missa solemnis” violin solo
- Rimski‑Korsakov’s “Scheherazade” Suite (Op. 35) violin solo
- One of the three Mozart violin concertos (K. 216, K. 218, or K. 219) – first movement with exposition and cadenza.
- Video must show the instrument and hands fully; upload to YouTube (unlisted) and provide link.
- Stage Round (12 Oct 2026, Estonia Concert Hall)
- Round I: One of the Mozart concertos (first movement) + orchestral excerpts.
- Round II: One of the listed concertos (Beethoven, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius, Dvořák, or Mendelssohn) – first movement with cadenza + orchestral excerpts.
- Live performance only; no travel support or visa sponsorship provided by ERSO.
- Orchestral Round
- Selected candidates play in at least two ERSO concerts and rehearsals.
- Final decision announced after this stage.
How to Apply
- Send: CV, application letter, and the YouTube link to audition@erso.ee with reference “Concertmaster”.
- Deadline: 1 Sept 2026 (no later).
- Further Info: Work‑in‑Estonia resources at www.workinestonia.com and www.settleinestonia.ee.
Why ERSO?
Joining ERSO means becoming part of Estonia’s musical torchbearer, collaborating with elite conductors, performing globally, and shaping the artistic direction of one of Europe’s most dynamic orchestras.
Apply today and lead the violin section into a new era of excellence.
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