Opportunities

The Paul J. Ross Fellowship Program is a two-year program designed to enable musicians identifying as Black or African American to dedicate themselves to the pursuit of an orchestral career. Fellows work closely alongside members of the Pittsburgh Symphony to train and prepare for professional auditions and opportunities, with substantial financial and professional development support, and robust mentorship in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

The Paul J. Ross Fellowship is named in honor of the late Paul J. Ross, the violinist who, in 1965, was the first African American musician to receive a full-time contract from the Pittsburgh Symphony. The legacy of Paul J. Ross is notable for nurturing, mentoring, and supporting young musicians, and his devotion to sharing his joy of music. Formerly known as OTPAAM (Orchestra Training Program for African American Musicians), the fellowship program was begun in the 2007-2008 season to promote diversity in orchestra settings to better reflect the diverse communities and audiences the orchestra serves.

Key components of the Fellowship
The two-year Fellowship begins September 1, 2025 and ends on September 5, 2027.
Compensation and Benefits:
Minimum annual pay each season is equivalent to 21 weeks at orchestra weekly scale; 24-25 season pay is $45,272.00 and 26-27 season pay is $49,248.15.
Single coverage on PSO medical, dental, instrument insurance, life and accident insurance plans.
Reimbursement of up to $8,000 per season in audition and professional development expenses such as lessons, travel, hotel, sheet music, AFM membership, etc.
Allowance for relocation to and from Pittsburgh at start and end of Fellowship
Fellows play a minimum of 100 services with the PSO across all program types (Classical Subscription, Pops, Education, Community Outreach), scheduled collaboratively to accommodate auditions and related preparation, as well as outside professional opportunities.
Fellows playing more than 112 services receive additional compensation at the extra musician rate (1/8 minimum orchestra weekly scale per-service).
Annual pay includes an allowance for dedicated study time.
Fellows have the ability and opportunity to tailor their experience to their own specific needs, including:
Mentorship from and mock auditions with members of the PSO
Time on stage at Heinz Hall to take lessons or for personal practice
Opportunity to observe PSO member auditions for insight on the audition process
Working with the Learning and Community Engagement Department in schools, hospitals, and community settings
Consideration for a solo opportunity with the PSO
All applicants will be considered for Pittsburgh Symphony substitute musician opportunities

How to Apply
The online application form and full details may be found here on our Auditions page. Candidates Invited to in-person final auditions will have their audition and travel expenses paid. Application requirements include:

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 in September 2025.
Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree by September 2025 is preferred.
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States.