Substitute List
A Substitute List is a roster of qualified musicians who are available to step in when regular orchestra members cannot perform. This system is essential for orchestras to maintain consistent performance quality when regular players are sick, on leave, or have scheduling conflicts. It's similar to having backup players in sports teams. Orchestra managers and personnel managers use these lists to quickly find appropriate replacements who are familiar with the orchestra's style and standards.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Substitute List of 200+ qualified musicians for emergency replacements
Maintained and updated Substitute List and Sub List for string section
Coordinated with Substitute Pool members for last-minute performance coverage
Typical job title: "Orchestra Personnel Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Orchestra Personnel Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple core orchestra members need substitutes for the same performance?
Expected Answer: A senior manager should discuss their system for prioritizing substitute calls, maintaining relationships with reliable substitutes, and having backup plans for various scenarios. They should also mention budget considerations and quality control measures.
Q: What strategies do you use to maintain and update a substitute list?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for evaluating new substitutes, getting feedback from section leaders, tracking substitute reliability, and regular list maintenance procedures including audition organization.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure substitutes are prepared for performances with minimal rehearsal time?
Expected Answer: Should discuss systems for advance music distribution, communication of specific performance requirements, and coordination with section leaders for style requirements.
Q: What information do you maintain about each substitute musician?
Expected Answer: Should describe tracking systems for contact information, availability patterns, instrument specialties, past performance history, and any specific orchestra preferences.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is your process for contacting substitutes when a need arises?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic protocols for contacting substitutes, including notification timeframes, communication methods, and record-keeping practices.
Q: How do you handle payment and contracts for substitute musicians?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic payment procedures, standard rates, required paperwork, and union regulations if applicable.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic substitute list maintenance
- Communication with musicians
- Schedule coordination
- Basic record keeping
Mid (2-5 years)
- Crisis management
- Relationship building with musicians
- Budget management
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic substitute pool development
- Long-term planning
- Union negotiations
- Organizational policy development
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of music industry knowledge
- No experience with musician scheduling
- Disorganized record-keeping
- Unfamiliarity with union regulations
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