Osaka Shion Wind Orchestra is seeking one percussionist. Application documents must arrive by Friday, January 15, 2027. The first and second rounds are scheduled for Friday, February 26, with Thursday, February 25 as a reserve date if there are many applicants.

The first round includes marimba or xylophone repertoire as well as snare drum repertoire.

Eligibility and applications

  • Applicants must have the ability to perform professionally in a wind orchestra.
  • Applicants must be at least 20 and under 60 years old on February 1, 2027.
  • Any nationality is eligible, with Japanese proficiency sufficient for the work.
  • Student applicants must be able to provide one recommendation letter.

Documents must be submitted by post or in person. Required items include a résumé, an employment history if applicable, a recommendation letter for students, and a return envelope. Consult the official audition rules (PDF, in Japanese) for the photograph and contact details, Japanese translations of recommendation letters, and envelope and postage requirements.

Audition rounds and repertoire

The first and second rounds take place at Shion’s Midorigi rehearsal facility, at 1-4-138 Midorigi, Suminoe Ward, Osaka. The first round is performed without piano accompaniment.

Solo requirements include snare drum studies by Knauer, Wilcoxon and Delécluse, and marimba or xylophone works by Goldenberg and Green. The pieces to be played will be designated on the day. Consult the rules for the specified editions, passages and repeat instructions.

The wind orchestra studies in the first and second rounds include drum set. The study materials will be dispatched by Tuesday, January 26, 2027; passages will be designated on the day. Following the interview, a third round covers approximately ten concerts.

Employment conditions

Remuneration is paid per concert, with no base salary and no social insurance, under a one-year contract. Travel expenses are reimbursed at actual cost up to a limit, with a separate daily allowance. Work takes place in Osaka City and at other locations designated by the orchestra.

Official information

Before applying, consult the official announcement and the percussion audition rules (PDF, in Japanese) . This article summarizes the rules checked on October 11, 2026.