Rejection in the classical music industry can feel like a punch to the gut, whether you’re an orchestral musician or a classical singer. Auditioning for roles in orchestras or ensembles is already a high-stakes game, and rejection can feel like a gut-wrenching setback. But before you give up on your dreams of becoming the next Yo-Yo Ma or Renée Fleming, know that rejection is not a death sentence. In fact, it can be an opportunity for growth and learning.
In this post, we’re going to explore some tips for handling rejection in the classical music industry and coming out on top – and we’re not just talking about bouncing back from a botched audition. We’re talking about soaring higher than ever before, even in the face of rejection.
So, how do you do it? Let’s dive in.
Change Your Mindset
The first step to handling rejection is to change your mindset. Rejection is not a failure – it’s a chance to learn and grow. It’s not a reflection of your worth or talent as a musician or singer, but simply a decision based on the needs of the orchestra or ensemble at that time. So, instead of wallowing in self-pity or despair, choose to see rejection as an opportunity for growth and improvement. This is a difficult task to set yourself! But that’s why it’s so important!

If you want tips and tricks on how to improve your mindset, seek out our guide on mindfulness for Musicians
Seek Feedback
After an audition or application, don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Many orchestras and ensembles offer feedback sessions or written critiques, which can be invaluable in identifying areas for improvement. Use this feedback to guide your practice and preparation for future auditions. And don’t forget to seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors, too – sometimes a fresh perspective can make all the difference.
Getting feedback is crucial to growth and improvement in any field, and classical music is no exception. As a musician, it’s important to seek out feedback from teachers, mentors, peers, and even audience members, and to listen to and accept that feedback with an open mind and a willingness to learn and improve. By taking feedback into account and using it to guide your practice and performance, you can become a better musician and elevate your artistry to new heights.
While all feedback is important, it’s equally important to seek out honest feedback from those around you. In the classical music industry, there can be a lot of “yay-sayers” who may not offer critical feedback for fear of hurting your feelings or damaging your relationship. However, it’s important to remember that honest feedback, even if it’s critical, can ultimately help you grow as a musician and performer. So don’t be afraid to seek out feedback from those who will give it to you straight, and use that feedback to continue honing your skills and improving your craft while being true to your artistic vision. Learn to hear the true feedback that will make you grow into a stronger musician.
Keep Practicing and Networking
Even after a rejection, it’s important to keep practicing and networking. Attend concerts and events in your area to meet new people and gain inspiration. Collaborate with other musicians or singers to build your portfolio and expand your skills. And don’t be afraid to audition for roles or ensembles outside of your immediate area or even abroad – you never know where your next big break might come from.
Networking is not only important but essential to building a successful career in classical music. While talent and hard work are certainly important factors, knowing the right people and making meaningful connections can often be the key to opening doors and advancing your career.
In the classical music industry, networking can take many forms – from attending concerts and industry events, to reaching out to fellow musicians, teachers, and mentors, to leveraging social media and online platforms to connect with others in the field. By building a network of contacts, you can gain valuable insights and advice, learn about upcoming opportunities, and even secure gigs, auditions, and other career-building experiences.
In the competitive and constantly evolving world of classical music, networking is more important than ever. By putting yourself out there, staying engaged, and fostering meaningful relationships with others in the industry, you can build a career that is not only fulfilling but also sustainable and successful in the long run. So don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone, introduce yourself to new people, and make the most of every opportunity to connect and collaborate with others in the classical music community.
But networking isn’t just about making connections for the sake of advancing your own career. It’s also about building relationships and contributing to the larger classical music community. By collaborating with other musicians, supporting each other’s performances and projects, and sharing resources and knowledge, you can help create a vibrant and supportive community that benefits everyone involved.
Embrace Rejection
It may sound counterintuitive, but embracing rejection is one of the best things you can do for your career. Many successful musicians and singers have faced rejection at some point in their careers – it’s often those who are persistent and resilient who come out on top. So, instead of letting rejection hold you back, let it fuel your determination and motivation. Remember, the path to success is rarely a straight line – it’s full of twists, turns, and yes, rejections. But if you keep pushing forward and never give up, you’ll get there eventually.
Handling rejection in the classical music industry is no easy feat – but it’s not impossible, either. By changing your mindset, seeking feedback, continuing to practice and network, and embracing rejection as a natural part of the journey, you can come out on top and achieve your dreams as a musician or singer. So, don’t let rejection get you down – let it be the fuel that propels you forward to even greater heights.