NFM Orchestra Academy

Akademia_Orkiestrowa

(polska wersja)

I am delighted to announce that applications are now open for the 2026–2027 edition of the NFM Orchestra Academy (NFM AO), a project of the National Forum of Music in Wrocław that has been developing the next generation of orchestral musicians since its establishment in 2015.

The Academy was created with a clear objective: to provide young musicians with the practical skills, artistic knowledge, and professional experience necessary to meet the demands of modern symphony orchestras. Through a series of intensive sessions led by principal players of the NFM Wrocław Philharmonic and distinguished guest artists, participants receive comprehensive training that bridges the gap between conservatory education and professional orchestral life.

The upcoming edition will take place at the National Forum of Music in Wrocław on the following dates:

17–18.10.2026
07–08.11.2026
19–20.12.2026
16–17.01.2027
06–07.02.2027
13–14.03.2027
03–04.04.2027
02–05.05.2027 (Rehearsals and Final Concert)

Throughout the Academy, participants will engage in both individual and group classes focused on the essential skills required of today’s orchestral brass musicians.

A significant portion of our work will center on orchestral excerpt studies, developing a comprehensive repertoire of excerpts commonly requested in professional trombone auditions. We will also devote considerable attention to section playing, reading and discussing major symphonic repertoire within the context of the low brass section and exploring the collaborative skills necessary for successful ensemble performance.

Another important area of study will be orchestral technique, examining practical approaches to improving intonation, rhythmic precision, articulation, balance, blend, and stylistic awareness. Alongside this, participants will take part in listening and score study sessions, exploring different orchestral traditions, historical performance practices, and the relationship between compositional context and musical interpretation.

Participants will also work with the NFM Academy Orchestra during open rehearsals led by guest conductors appearing with the NFM Wrocław Philharmonic. In addition, the Academy includes sessions dedicated to physical and mental preparation for musicians, recognizing that sustainable performance depends on much more than technical mastery alone.

One of the most valuable aspects of the program is the opportunity for selected participants to perform in chosen projects alongside the NFM Wrocław Philharmonic during the concert season. These experiences provide invaluable exposure to the realities of professional orchestral performance and allow participants to apply their training in a world-class concert environment.

Application Requirements

To enter the selection process, candidates must submit a video recording containing the following repertoire:

Tenor Trombone (choose one)

Ferdinand David – Concertino (first movement including cadenza)
Alexandre Guilmant – Morceau Symphonique

Bass Trombone

Alexander Lebedev – Concerto in One Movement (until and including cadenza)

Full details regarding audition requirements, program structure, and participation conditions are available through the official Academy information materials.

Submissions must be received by September 30, 2026.

The NFM Orchestra Academy has become an important stepping stone for many young musicians beginning their professional careers, and I look forward to working with the next group of talented trombonists as we explore the challenges and rewards of orchestral performance together. If you are considering a future in orchestral music, I warmly encourage you to apply.