Orchestral Onboarding Checklist

Orchestral Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Orchestral starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Music onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Orchestral, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Orchestral onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Orchestral Onboarding Checklist

1. Instrument and equipment setup: This task involves ensuring that the new orchestral musician’s instrument and equipment are properly set up and in good working condition. The orchestra’s instrument technician or a designated staff member typically performs this task, providing guidance on instrument care and maintenance.

2. Introduction to the orchestra: The new musician should be introduced to the entire orchestra, including the conductor, section leaders, and fellow musicians. This helps foster a sense of belonging and facilitates collaboration. The orchestra’s conductor or a designated staff member usually performs this task.

3. Familiarization with the repertoire: The new musician should receive a detailed overview of the orchestra’s upcoming repertoire, including the specific pieces, composers, and performance dates. This allows them to prepare and practice accordingly. The orchestra’s librarian or a designated staff member typically performs this task.

4. Rehearsal schedule and expectations: The new musician should be provided with a comprehensive rehearsal schedule, outlining the dates, times, and locations of rehearsals. Additionally, they should be informed about the orchestra’s expectations regarding punctuality, preparation, and professional conduct during rehearsals. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member usually performs this task.

5. Sectional rehearsals: The new musician should be informed about any scheduled sectional rehearsals, where musicians from the same instrument group practice together. This allows for focused practice and coordination within the section. The section leader or a designated staff member typically organizes and leads these rehearsals.

6. Performance attire guidelines: The new musician should be provided with clear guidelines regarding the appropriate attire for performances, including dress code, colors, and any specific requirements. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member usually communicates this information.

7. Performance logistics: The new musician should be informed about the logistics of performances, including call times, backstage procedures, and any specific requirements for each venue. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member typically communicates this information.

8. Orchestra policies and procedures: The new musician should receive a comprehensive overview of the orchestra’s policies and procedures, including attendance, leave, communication channels, and any other relevant guidelines. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member usually provides this information.

9. Introduction to support staff: The new musician should be introduced to the orchestra’s support staff, such as the administrative team, stage crew, and music librarians. This helps establish connections and facilitates smooth collaboration. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member typically performs this task.

10. Mentoring and buddy system: Assigning a mentor or buddy to the new musician can greatly assist in their integration into the orchestra. The mentor can provide guidance, answer questions, and offer support throughout the onboarding process. The orchestra’s conductor, section leader, or a designated staff member typically arranges this mentoring relationship.

11. Performance etiquette and traditions: The new musician should be educated about the orchestra’s performance etiquette and any specific traditions that are observed during concerts. This includes bowing, applause protocol, and any other customary practices. The orchestra’s conductor or a designated staff member typically provides this information.

12. Introduction to audience engagement initiatives: The new musician should be informed about any audience engagement initiatives undertaken by the orchestra, such as pre-concert talks, educational programs, or community outreach events. This allows them to actively participate and contribute to these initiatives. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member typically communicates this information.

13. Health and safety guidelines: The new musician should receive a thorough briefing on health and safety guidelines specific to the orchestra, including emergency procedures, injury prevention, and any relevant regulations. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member typically provides this information.

14. Performance feedback and evaluation: The new musician should be informed about the orchestra’s performance feedback and evaluation processes, including how and when feedback is given, and any performance review procedures. The orchestra’s conductor, section leader, or a designated staff member typically communicates this information.

15. Networking opportunities: The new musician should be made aware of any networking opportunities within the industry, such as conferences, workshops, or collaborations with other orchestras. This allows them to expand their professional network and stay updated on industry trends. The orchestra’s manager or a designated staff member typically provides this information

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Orchestral checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Orchestral up to speed and working well in your Music team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.