Orchestral Institute-Texas Music Festival

The Immanuel and Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival Orchestral Institute® (TMF) was founded in 1990 to provide young professional musicians with a challenging musical environment in which to develop skills for a successful career in orchestral performance. The intensive four-week orchestral and chamber music fellowship program on the University of Houston campus is guided by renowned guest conductors, members of the Houston Symphony, Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera orchestras, faculty from the Moores School of Music and Shepherd School of Music, and other distinguished artists.

• All auditions will be recorded (video only) and submitted through this portal.

• Applicants must be 18 years of age ON June 1, 2025. Participant age range is 18-30.  (we make exceptions for some outstanding high school juniors or seniors). 

• Faculty may give preference to applicants who have not already attended the festival for two consecutive years.

• International applicants not already in the U.S. on an F or J visa valid through June 28, 2025 are required to apply for a J-1 visa to attend TMF. English proficiency is also required – all rehearsals, sectionals, lessons, coachings, and master classes are held in English. Visa requests for TMF, through University of Houston, must be made no later than March 30.

• Application fee: $60 (non-refundable).  Due with application and paid by credit card through Acceptd.  

• Recorded Audition Application Deadline – Monday, February 17, 2025 by midnight CST.

• Visit the TMF website for audition requirements and more information about the Orchestral Institute.