The Charleston Symphony announces an audition for:

The Opportunity

The Charleston Symphony seeks a full-time, tenure-track Principal Bass to join its Core Orchestra. The successful candidate will serve as Principal Bass of the orchestra and will perform regularly in chamber ensembles, maintaining the highest professional level across a broad range of repertoire. This is a full-time Core Musician position within a collaborative organization that values versatility, professionalism, and meaningful engagement with audiences and the community.

In addition to orchestral performance responsibilities, the position includes:

• Participation in musician committees, education, community engagement programs, and side-by-side activities as assigned
• Participation in auditions, recordings, tours, and special events as required
• Professional collaboration with conductors, guest artists, and colleagues
• Eligibility to serve as a Musician Ambassador, a selective, paid role supporting the Symphony’s Advancement efforts

CHS Symphony_Principal Bass Aud Info

Application Process

Audition Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Start Date: July 1, 2026

2026-27 Season: September through May

• Interested applicants should submit a resumé (including two references) in pdf format before March 26 via the form below. PDF should be titled “LastNameFirstInitial_bass” (ex: “SmithJ_bass)
• Applicants will be notified by email by April 1 whether they are invited to audition.
• Click for Rep List
• PDFs of audition repertoire will be provided to invited candidates once available, upon request.
• Audition process will include interviews.

Candidates must possess all documentation that allows them to work legally in the United States.

Prior to being offered employment with the CSO, all potential employees are subject to the CSO’s administrative hiring procedures, including but not limited to reference checks and background checks.

Inquiries may be directed to: personnel@charlestonsymphony.org

About the Charleston Symphony

Mission: To inspire and engage our community through exceptional musical and educational programs.

Vision: To be a premier cultural destination and leading performing arts organization that sparks lasting connections and transformative impact for all of Charleston.

The Charleston Symphony is one of the fastest growing Orchestras in the United States and is a forward-thinking orchestra in one of the nation’s most dynamic and thriving cities. Concert attendance has increased by over 75% since before the pandemic, reflecting the community’s strong support for live music. Following a successful inaugural endowment campaign that surpassed $15 million, a second campaign is underway to further strengthen the Symphony’s long-term artistic and financial foundation. In 2025, the CSO marked a major milestone with its debut at Carnegie Hall.

Rooted in 90 years of artistic tradition and guided by core values of excellence, collaboration, integrity, and innovation, the CSO is focused on attracting and retaining outstanding talent while building a sustainable future that supports competitive compensation and artistic fulfillment. Musicians have the opportunity to play a meaningful role in a thriving orchestra while living and performing in a vibrant cultural city known for its rich history, dynamic arts scene, and coastal beauty.