The Chelsea Symphony

2025-2027 Composition Fellow

Position Title: 2025-27 Composition Fellow

LINK TO APPLY

Position Overview:

The Chelsea Symphony (TCS) is seeking a highly talented and dedicated composer for the position of Composition Fellow. This is a two-year position designed to support early-career composers in the New York City area. The successful candidate will receive a performance of a previously composed work in the 2025-2026 season, and will compose a new work for the 2026-2027 season. In addition to their activities as a composer, the Composition Fellow will contribute to the ensemble by performing as an orchestral instrumentalist and/or participating in orchestral operations as appropriate for their interests and experience. The successful candidate will work closely with the TCS team and will be an enthusiastic contributor to The Chelsea Symphony’s vibrant community of musicians. This position is unpaid and requires active participation in at least four concert cycles per season.

Terms of Engagement:

  • Performance of Previously Composed Work: The Composition Fellow will have one of their previously composed works performed by The Chelsea Symphony during the 2025-2026 season. This engagement includes score preparation, collaboration with musicians, and attendance at rehearsals and performances.
  • Composition of New Work: The Composition Fellow will compose a new work to be performed by The Chelsea Symphony in the 2026-2027 season, to be planned in consultation with the TCS Artistic Directors.
  • Participation in Concert Cycles: Perform as an ensemble instrumentalist and/or provide operations support (e.g., recording and livestream production, music librarianship, marketing and social media), as appropriate for the Composition Fellow’s performance background, on at least four concert cycles per season. One of these cycles will coincide with the composition engagement described above.
  • Professional Development: If desired, gain experience in orchestral operations as appropriate for the Composition Fellow’s interests and experience. Participate in mentorship sessions with the Artistic Directors or guest conductors to enhance compositional skills, gain insights into artistic and administrative processes, and receive constructive feedback for growth.
  • The fellowship may be extended for a subsequent year at the discretion of the Artistic Directors, Chelsea Symphony Board, and Executive Director.

Qualifications:

  • Education and Experience: Previous training and experience in composing for ensembles, preferably orchestras, is highly desirable. Demonstrated excellence in composition and innovative musical ideas will be given significant consideration.
  • Musical Proficiency: Strong musical and theoretical skills, including a deep understanding of orchestral repertoire, instrumentation, and compositional techniques. The ability to effectively communicate musical ideas to performers is crucial. Proficiency on an orchestral instrument and ability to contribute to the ensemble as a performer is preferred.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling collaboration with musicians, conductors, and the administrative team of The Chelsea Symphony. The ability to work effectively as part of a team is essential.
  • Commitment: Willingness to commit to the full two-year term, including active participation in rehearsals, concerts, workshops, and associated activities. All activities will take place in New York City or the greater New York area; any travel or lodging necessary to participate in TCS events will be at the Composition Fellow’s expense. Potential to broaden The Chelsea Symphony’s roster of musicians is highly desirable.
  • Professional Growth Mindset: A strong desire to grow as a composer and engage in continuous learning. The Composition Fellow should be receptive to feedback and committed to ongoing professional development.

EDI

The Chelsea Symphony is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of its operations. As an organization, we strongly believe that diverse perspectives and experiences enrich the artistic process and contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive musical community. Therefore, in line with our EDI goals, we particularly encourage applications from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our organization.

As part of the application process, candidates are invited to share how their unique background and experiences align with our commitment to EDI. The Chelsea Symphony welcomes applications from individuals who are traditionally underrepresented in the composition field and seeks to provide an inclusive platform for emerging talents to flourish.

By actively fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to create an environment where all members of The Chelsea Symphony can thrive and contribute to the artistic excellence and cultural enrichment of our organization and community.

Application Process:

To apply for the position of Composition Fellow with The Chelsea Symphony, please submit the following documents:

  1. Cover letter highlighting your interest in the position and your compositional goals.
  2. Composer's resume detailing your education, composition experience, and relevant musical achievements.
  3. Three representative compositions showcasing your style and range as a composer. These may include chamber, orchestral, or other ensemble works. One of these works should be the work which you intend to be considered for performance during the 2025-2026 Season.
    1. Works must not exceed the following maximum orchestration.
      1. Maximum orchestration: 2.2.2.2/4.2.3.1/Timp+2/Harp/Pno/Strings (playable by 6.6.4.4.2 players)
      2. Standard auxiliary doubling for winds is acceptable but may not exceed maximum forces.
    2. Works may not include soloists.
    3. Extramusical components will be considered on a case-by-case basis with regards to feasibility of performance (i.e.: electronics, visual, spacial, choreographic, etc.) Works may not exceed a projected performance length of 15 minutes.
  4. Recordings or MIDI realizations of the submitted compositions, if available.

Applications should be submitted via this online application link. Best consideration will be given to candidates who apply by April 4, 2025.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and may be asked to present additional materials or provide references.

About the Chelsea Symphony

The Chelsea Symphony aims to democratize the concert experience and foster shared discovery through socially engaged programming, professional support for musicians, and an inclusive and accessible environment for all audiences. As a non-profit, self-governing orchestra, TCS provides performance opportunities for its musicians while operating on an affordable scale. Soloists, conductors, and featured composers are chosen from within the orchestra's ranks, earning this benefit through their participation. Administrative operations are also handled by members of the ensemble.

Founded in 2005 by young conductors Yaniv Segal and Miguel Campos Neto, The Chelsea Symphony has earned a reputation as one of the most innovative ensembles in the New York metropolitan area. Shortly after its inception, the orchestra was featured in WNYC's "Salute to the Arts" Initiative, and The New York Times praised the ensemble for its "earnest, vibrant" playing. The Chelsea Symphony has collaborated with notable artists such as Clay Aiken, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Tony Award winner Lillias White, Broadway composer Seth Rudetsky, the Irish Tenors, and fashion designer Malan Breton. The orchestra's annual holiday concert has featured guest celebrities Richard Kind, David Hyde Pierce, Ana Gasteyer, Charles Busch, Andrea Martin, Rachel Dratch, Mo Rocca, Victor Garber, BD Wong, Seth Rudetsky, and Annie Golden narrating Aaron Dai's The Night Before Christmas.

LINK TO APPLY