The NZSO is at the pinnacle of orchestral achievement in Aotearoa New Zealand and is recognised as an orchestra of international standing.

We continue to grow and develop artistically, taking a challenging and varied programme of music to communities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. One of the world’s oldest national symphony orchestras, we have charmed audiences with memorable concerts and recordings for over 75 years.

We are recruiting for the position of Principal Harp here at the NZSO. Candidates should display the highest level of ability and musicianship to apply.

These auditions are only open to those candidates with the right to work in New Zealand for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra at the time of application.

IMPORTANT DATES

• Applications for live auditions close: Monday 16 June 2025

• Recorded auditions due by: Monday 16 June 2025

• Live audition practice day (optional): Wednesday 25 June 2025 (Wellington, NZ)

• Live audition date: Thursday 26 June 2025 (Wellington, NZ)

LIVE AUDITIONS

Candidates can bring their own harp to audition on or use the NZSO No.1 Harp.

For candidates using the NZSO harp, a time will be allocated on Wednesday 25 June 2025 to practice on the instrument.

Live auditions will take place on Thursday 26 June 2025 in Wellington, New Zealand.

Live auditions will be unaccompanied. Please tune to A440.

Candidates will be advised on arrival at the audition which excerpts will be required.

RECORDED AUDITIONS

If you are unable to travel to Wellington, New Zealand for the live auditions, you may submit a filmed audition recording. Only recordings that follow the following requirements will be accepted:

• Audition recordings must be video and audio

• Auditions must be recorded unaccompanied. Please tune to A440

• Auditions must be recorded on the same day, in the same venue, and be recorded within the last 2 months

• Each individual audition item, i.e. each solo and each excerpt, must be recorded in one unedited single take without cuts, substitutions or effects

• Each individual audition item (solos and excerpts), must be submitted in a separate file, with filenames as per the Audition Requirements document

• We recommend using a high quality microphone in a professional recording environment.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please complete the online application form linked here by Monday 16 June 2025. Once your application is received, you will be emailed the excerpt pack. You can view a list of the audition repertoire here.

Candidates who request to submit a recorded audition will be emailed a link to submit their audition recordings.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The successful candidate/s will be invited to play for a trial period with the orchestra. You will be notified of the results soon after the live audition date.

If you have any queries or require details of conditions and remuneration, please do not hesitate to contact us at auditions@nzso.co.nz. We look forward to receiving all applications and recorded auditions by Monday 16 June 2025.