Academy Fellowship
The BSO Fellowship is a selective, audition-based program for advanced string musicians seeking meaningful orchestral experience.
Fellowship members rehearse and perform with the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, receive mentorship through private instruction with orchestra members and guidance from Music Director Stilian Kirov and are awarded a scholarship in support of their continued musical development.
Fellowship Requirements
Interested in joining the BSO Fellowship? Explore the requirements below to make sure you’re eligible and ready to apply.
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Applicants must be string players between the ages of 15 and 22, attend a high school or college in Kern County, participate in their school’s music program during the fellowship year, and be taking private lessons.
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Submit a 2–5 minute audio or video recording featuring two contrasting excerpts. Label the file with your first and last name and email it to info@bsonow.org with the subject line “Fellowship Application Recording.”
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Applicants must request recommendations from both their school ensemble director and private instructor. Applications without both recommendations will not be considered.
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Selected fellows will perform with the Bakersfield Symphony in three to five concerts during the 2026–27 season, receive private lessons from Symphony musicians, and earn a scholarship of $750–$1,250 based on the number of concerts performed.