Posted by Another anecdote on May 14, 2003 at 08:14:51:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: teens auditioning in pro orchestras posted by good reason? on May 13, 2003 at 15:28:43:
A story I heard was that when Phil Smith won his trumpet position with the CSO, his prior professional playing experience was with the NYC Salvation Army Brass Band, and he played most of the audition on a Bb trumpet. Prior to playing, he was reportedly told by other applicants that he had no chance of winning using a Bb. After he won the job, he simply walked past the non-winners holding up the instrument. However, as the story goes, he was very quickly accompanied by some of the existing orchestra members on a shopping spree where he selected a C Trumpet.
Based on just a resume, Mr. Smith may not have been invited to audition if he had applied for a different orchestra. Appaently the CSO is confident enough in their ability to pick the best player, regardless of previous experience, to listen to anyone wishing to audition.