LAB 2025-2026 Apprentice Program
Applications Due September 10
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Paid Stipend • Professional Baroque Training • Individual Instruction • Community Engagement Training • LAB Membership • Chamber Music
"Getting to work with LA Baroque as their apprentice provided a safe environment where I could refine and cultivate this skill. Everyone there is so supportive, and genuinely wants to see you succeed. The two years I spent with them not only helped me become better at my craft, but also showed me what making music with others could and should be." -Holly Knoch, LAB Apprentice 2023-2025
LOS ANGELES BAROQUE ANNOUNCES
2025-2026 SEASON STRING APPRENTICESHIP
Open to all violin and viola players age 18+
Applications Close September 10, 2025
When: October 13, 2025 – May 10, 2026 (various dates - see below)
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Are you a baroque-curious school music teacher, advanced violin/viola student or emerging professional, private studio teacher, and/or freelancer?
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Would you like to dip your toes into the baroque world through weekly baroque orchestra rehearsals, regular public performances, concerto opportunities, and 1:1 training and mentorship from our artistic director, Lindsey Strand-Polyak?
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As a music educator, are you keen to expand your own teaching knowledge of historical performance practice while growing your community engagement experience?
Where: St. James’ Episcopal Church, South Pasadena
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The team at LAB is excited to offer its second apprenticeship position for the 2025-2026 Season. The LAB Apprenticeship is a unique opportunity — and the only one in the country — for advanced players to gain both supported professional baroque orchestra experience and receive community engagement training.
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One apprenticeship is available to violin and viola players, with a season-long commitment. Los Angeles Baroque’s Big Band (its flagship baroque orchestra) membership dues are waived and there is no charge for the one-to-one coaching from Lindsey Strand-Polyak included in the apprenticeship throughout the season.
A stipend is offered, at a progressive rate, and we intend the role to grow throughout 2025-2026 as the appointed apprentice becomes more involved and experienced:
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$400 for full participation in Fall 2025 rehearsals, 1:1 coaching, and November 16 performance
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$500 for full participation in Winter 2026 rehearsals, 1:1 coaching, and March 15 performance
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$600 for full participation in Spring 2024 rehearsals, 1:1 coaching, and May 10 performance
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2025-2026 Apprenticeship stipend total: $1,500
Apprentice Program Components:
• Large Ensemble Baroque Orchestra Experience
• Individual Private Instruction on baroque violin/viola
• Outreach Chamber Music Opportunities
• Baroque Bow/Instrument Loaner Available
• Concerto Solo Opportunities
• Possibility of 2026-2027 Apprenticeship Renewal
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Apprentice Program Requirements:
• Advanced player of violin or viola
• Open to all ages 18+
• Some experience/awareness of baroque performance practice
• Residing in California (no travel or housing stipends are available)
• Attendance Required at all performances, dress rehearsals and most rehearsals
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Please note: this in-depth opportunity is just one way to get involved and participate in LAB's ensembles! Anyone of any level 16+ may join LAB: there is no audition process for general membership (members' dues are listed on our main Programs page and a small number of "pay what you can" scholarships are also available).
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