New Zealand Assistant Conductor in Residence

Are you an emerging professional conductor looking for valuable experience both on and off the podium? New Zealand’s network of professional orchestras has an opportunity for you.

The Auckland Philharmonia is part of a vibrant orchestra network in Aotearoa, building on a foundation of musical excellence to support, promote and nurture the next generation of orchestral musicians, soloists and conductors.

In association with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra (CSO), Dunedin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) and Orchestra Wellington (OW), the Auckland Philharmonia is delighted to announce the continuation of the New Zealand Assistant Conductor in Residence position. The successful candidate will assist the Music Directors and guest conductors of the participating orchestras according to agreed work plan across the 2027 season. The postholder will also benefit from mentoring by the Music Directors, and from working with the senior artistic management teams at the orchestras to gain experience, insight and understanding into the workings of a professional orchestra. Conducting work will also be available according to the suitability of the successful candidate.

To download a full copy of the job description including full renumeration package please open the link below:

Download Job Description

Please apply in writing with:

• Current CV or résumé, including details of two professional referees (PDF or WORD only)
• Cover letter (PDF or WORD only)
• Two video recordings of yourself conducting two contrasting works with an orchestra or an instrumental ensemble. This should be a recent recording (produced within the last 18 months). Recording URL links should be pasted into the email application.

Closing date for applications is Friday 9 October 2026 Please send your application to Esther Stephens:

Successful candidates for audition will be notified by COB Friday 30 October 2026.  If accepted, candidates will be expected to conduct the following repertoire at the audition;

Candidate’s choice of:

Beethoven                                                      Symphony No.1, 1^st mvt                       rehearse intro and exposition only

Beethoven                                                      Symphony No.2, 1^st mvt                       rehearse intro and exposition only

Beethoven                                                      Symphony No.4, 1^st mvt                       rehearse intro and exposition only

Compulsory works:

J Strauss Jr                                                     Die Fledermaus Overture                                                            play through

Bruch                                                               Violin Concerto No.1 in G Minor, 1^st mvt                                 rehearse

Louise Webster                                              Falling Brittle on the Wing                                                       rehearse

Stravinsky                                                       Dumbarton Oaks, 1^st mvt                                                            play through

Auditions will be in Auckland on Friday 20 November 2026 with the Auckland Philharmonia and representatives of other New Zealand orchestras at Life Church Mount Eden.

Further information can be obtained by contacting Esther Stephens:

This position is open to New Zealand and Australian citizens or permanent residents only.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a New Zealand Police vetting check.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.