Musician Auditions
August 2025 Auditions | Resume Deadline: July 30, 2025
Additional audition information to be posted.
Sat. August 16 – Double Reeds
Principal Oboe | Oboe III (utility) | Bassoon 2
Sun. August 17 – Violins
Violin I & II Section (5 positions)
Sat. August 23 – Brass
Trumpet 2 & 3 | Trombone 2
Sun. August 24 – Harp
Principal Harp
Audition Location:
St. Joseph High School Performing Arts Center
2521 Stadium Drive, St. Joseph, MI 49085
Audition Requirements
Submit a one-page resume.
Submit via email to auditions@smso.org, with “SMSO <your instrument> Auditions” in the subject line.
A deposit check of $25 is required to hold your place in audition.
Candidates who appear on audition day will have their check returned or destroyed. No-show candidate checks non-refundable.
Make checks payable to: Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra
Mail to:
SMSO
Attn: Audition Manager
2755 E. Napier Ave
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Candidates will be provided with audition-day information, directions, and schedule.
Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of audition.
Questions? Please email auditions@smso.org, and include Audition Question in the subject line, and your name, instrument, and contact information in the body of the email. No phone calls please.
An awarded position begins based on mutual availability of musician and SMSO.
If a position is won by a current member of the SMSO, the resulting vacancy may be offered to a runner up as a temporary appointment with the possibility of becoming permanent.
Additional SMSO Details
The SMSO is a per-service orchestra.
The per service rates and service numbers below are for the 2025-26 season as negotiated for our Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Michiana Federation of Musicians, Local 232-278 American Federation of Musicians.
Per Service Current Rates
Base (Section) – $85.01
Intermediate – Base rate + 12.5%
Principal – Base rate + 30%
Plus mileage and per diem.
Guaranteed Services
Minimum 13* services during Regular/Mainstage season for most positions (*minimum 5 services for Oboe III, Trumpet III, Harp, Violin I chair 9).
Additional services may be available during Summer season.
Open Staff Positions
No posted vacancies at this time.
The SMSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and members without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, disability status, marital status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Candidates from all backgrounds and walks of life are encouraged to apply.