Be Yourself – Be Music – Be Phil
A passion for classical music: It’s what connects us, the Berliner Philharmoniker, with music-lovers all around the world. That’s why the project Be Phil Orchestra is very close to our hearts. Amateur musicians work together with members of the Berliner Philharmoniker to prepare and play a concert programme.
All interested amateur musicians from Austria and neighbouring countries have a unique opportunity during the Salzburg Easter Festival to perform a concert at the Großes Festspielhaus alongside members of the Berliner Philharmoniker under the direction of Tugan Sokhiev. The programme includes Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Sinfonia concertante in E-flat major, K. 297b, and Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 in G major, Op. 88. Around 100 amateur musicians will be selected for this event. The rehearsal period, culminating in the final concert on 2 April 2026 at the Großes Festspielhaus, will take place in Salzburg from 29 March to 2 April 2026.
Be Phil Orchestra at a glance
Who: Amateur musicians aged 18 and over residing in the following countries: Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Germany, Switzerland, and Slovakia.
When: 29 March – 2 April 2026
How: Applications are submitted via video. From 6 May to 15 September 2025 (6 pm), videos and additional details can be uploaded here. A jury from the Berliner Philharmoniker will select the members of the Be Phil Orchestra from the applications. Successful applicants will be notified from 1 November 2025.
Application FAQ
How do I apply?
Via registration form and video, between 6 May and 15 September 2025, here on our website
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, you have to be at least 18 years old
Where do I have to be resident in order to take part?
Those resident in Austria or its neighbouring countries (Italy, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Germany, Switzerland and Slovakia) may apply.
Does my nationality matter?
No, what matters is your country of residence
How are the participants selected?
A jury consisting of members of the Berliner Philharmoniker will select around 100 amateur musicians.
How do you define amateur musicians?
For us, amateur means that your studies or profession are not related to the public performance of
music. This excludes those currently majoring in orchestral instrument performance at tertiary
institutions. However, music teachers, for example, can apply.
In which language will the rehearsals be held?
You must be able to speak and understand English well enough to communicate with your fellow
musicians and the conductor.
What instrument do I need to play in order to participate?
Any of the instruments listed below.
• Violin
• Viola
• Violoncello
• Double bass
• Flute
• Piccolo
• Oboe
• English Horn
• Clarinet
• Bassoon
• Horn
• Trumpet
• Trombone
• Bass Trombone
• Tuba
• Timpani
How well do I have to be able to play my instrument?
You should be able to play well enough to perform an orchestral part in Mozart's Sinfonia Concertante in E flat major and Antonín Dvořák's Symphony No. 8 in G major op. 88.
A ‘continuous’ video (one-take video) is required. What is meant by this?
This refers to video recordings that were made in a single take, with a single camera, and without cuts.
Can I also apply with an audio recording?
No, only video applications will be accepted.
How old can a recording be?
A maximum of one year old
How do I send you my video?
You can upload the video to our website from 6 May 2025.
Is a specific video format required?
All standard formats are permitted
What music should I record?
Please play a piece – in whole or in part – that will allow us to assess your abilities. The piece should be from the classical music repertoire in the broadest sense.
How long should the video be?
A maximum of 6 minutes
Must or may I be accompanied by a piano?
It is permitted, but it is not a requirement.
Can I apply with a chamber music piece?
Yes, as long as you can demonstrate your individual skills.
Should I say something about myself in the video?
You are welcome to do so, but it is not necessary. In addition to the video, there will be a short questionnaire in which you can introduce yourself.
Is there a charge for taking part in the project?
No, but we are unfortunately unable to cover the costs of travel, accommodation and meals.
When will the successful applicants be announced?
From 1 November 2025
When will the rehearsals take place?
From 29 March to 2 April 2026
When will the concert take place?
On Thursday, 2 April 2026, at 7 pm, at the Großes Festspielhaus
Can you help me find accommodation?
We are looking for hosts in Salzburg. We will inform all selected participants about this when they commit to the project from 1 November 2025.
Do I need special clothing for the concert?
Men should wear a black suit and a black shirt, ladies should wear suitable (black) concert clothing
Will the project be documented by photo, sound or film?
Yes
Hosts Wanted!
Would you like to support this project, even if you don’t play an instrument? Then become a Be Phil host and accommodate participants of the Be Phil Orchestra during the rehearsal period.
For more information, please contact Saskia Neudegger at: s.neudegger@osterfestspiele.at
In November 2023, the Be Phil Orchestra went on tour in Japan. A specially-compiled suite from Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet was performed under the baton of chief conductor Kirill Petrenko. The programme also included Johannes Brahms’ Double Concerto for Violin, Cello and Orchestra, conducted by Raphael Haeger, percussionist with the Philharmoniker. The solo parts were performed by the Berliner Philharmoniker’s 1st concertmaster, Daishin Kashimoto, and the orchestra’s 1st principal cellist, Ludwig Quandt. Rehearsals for both works were lead by Raphael Haeger and other members of the Berliner Philharmoniker. The programme's highlight was a concert conducted by Kirill Petrenko at Suntory Hall on 26 November 2023.
Be Phil Orchestra in Japan
In collaboration with
