The process of auditioning and joining an orchestra can seem mysterious to outsiders. It’s certainly a stressful experience for candidates – I’ve been one many more times than I’ve been on the panel – but it’s also tremendously exciting when you find a musician who you hope will invigorate the orchestra. The first week of February is a busy time for us. We are holding three auditions: principal second violin, second trumpet and second trombone. Hundreds of musicians will descend on Jacoby Hall hoping to secure a place with the Jacksonville Symphony. Take a moment to ponder the number of applicants for each position. I’m often bemused when friends moan about how steep the competition is for a job they want. One in five, one

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