Professional Contracts for Petrie Students Through Collaboration with Spartanburg Philharmonic

A new partnership between the Greater Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra (GSP) and Converse College will allow exceptional Petrie School of Music students to win a professional orchestral contract while pursuing their Converse degree.

“This apprenticeship will allow Converse students to earn a bachelor’s degree in music while earning professional résumé credits and gaining experience in a broad range of repertoire,” said Joseph Hopkins, Dean of the Petrie School of Music.

Under the agreement, apprentices will perform with the GSP in five concerts and participate in corresponding rehearsals, earning an additional $1000 in scholarship aid each year above their current music or academic scholarships. Apprentices will also participate in the Converse Symphony Orchestra and/or the Converse Wind Ensemble. The experience will help build a valuable list of professional credits and extensive repertoire for the student’s resume.

A first round of auditions for prospective students is held. If nominated, the student will then be asked to appear in a formal audition for the music director of GSP or to submit a taped recording. Other audition times may be available upon request.

For more information, contact the Admissions Office for the Petrie School, by calling (864) 596-9166 or 800-766-1125, or by sending an e-mail to music@converse.edu.