Extra Musicians
Extra Musicians are professional performers who join orchestras or musical ensembles on a temporary basis when additional players are needed. They are like skilled temporary workers for orchestras, stepping in for specific performances or projects. These musicians are called upon when a piece requires more instruments than the regular orchestra has, when regular members are unavailable, or for especially large productions. They might also be called "substitute musicians," "casual players," or "freelance musicians" in job descriptions.
Examples in Resumes
Managed a roster of 50+ Extra Musicians for seasonal productions
Coordinated schedules and contracts for Extra Musicians and Substitute Musicians during 2022-2023 season
Developed payment processing system for Freelance Musicians and Extra Musicians
Typical job title: "Orchestra Personnel Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Orchestra Personnel Managers
Professional Organizations
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle last-minute cancellations from extra musicians before a major performance?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with maintaining extensive backup contact lists, emergency protocols, and established relationships with reliable musicians. Should mention budget considerations and union regulations.
Q: How do you manage the budget for extra musicians across a full season?
Expected Answer: Should explain experience with seasonal planning, understanding of union rates, budget forecasting, and balancing artistic needs with financial constraints.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What systems do you use to track and manage extra musician availability?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with scheduling software, database management, and communication systems for coordinating with multiple musicians.
Q: How do you ensure extra musicians meet the orchestra's performance standards?
Expected Answer: Should explain audition processes, reference checking, trial periods, and maintaining quality control through feedback from section leaders.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information do you need to collect from extra musicians before hiring them?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic requirements like contact details, availability, instrument specialization, union membership, payment information, and performance experience.
Q: How do you communicate performance details to extra musicians?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating clear communication about rehearsal schedules, dress codes, music distribution, and performance expectations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic scheduling and coordination
- Database management of musician contacts
- Understanding of musical terminology
- Basic contract administration
Mid (2-5 years)
- Budget management
- Union regulation compliance
- Quality assessment of musicians
- Emergency situation handling
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic season planning
- Complex budget oversight
- Network development
- Crisis management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of union regulations and rates
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of basic musical knowledge
- No experience with scheduling software or databases
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