Volunteer Your Time

Give Your Time, Share Your Talents

The Volunteer Council was created in 1980 to coordinate the talents, time and energy of people who care about music and the New York Philharmonic.

The Council has a committee-based structure and is under the leadership of a president and executive committee - all drawn from the volunteer membership. Volunteers perform various functions at concerts and special events, and work behind the scenes to support the staff of the New York Philharmonic.

Through its committees the Council offers many opportunities for participation in a wide range of activities and welcomes new volunteers wishing to have a long-term involvement with a community of individuals who are dedicated to the Philharmonic and the spirit of volunteerism.

New York Philharmonic volunteers are very dedicated and we rely upon them to fulfill their responsibilities. We want to make certain that you are comfortable with our needs. Therefore, please take the time to review the requirements of volunteering at the New York Philharmonic before you submit your application.

Requirements of Membership

Volunteers are required to support the New York Philharmonic with a contribution of $75.00 or more annually.

All volunteers must sign a Letter of Agreement annually, promising to honor the guidelines and rules of the Council.

All first-year members are required to work a minimum of (6) times at the Gift Kiosk/Book Table and are encouraged to investigate the opportunities offered by other committees. After the first year of membership all council members are requested to participate in at least two committees.

Volunteer Council members are not obligated to work every week, and there is flexibility in the scheduling of assignments; however, once assigned to a project, members are expected to honor their commitments and fulfill their responsibilities.

Benefits

Volunteers often have access to select performances and rehearsals at which they are working. This is dependent upon the particular responsibility and ticket availability at the time. We offer many wonderful privileges to volunteers according to their respective levels of Annual Funds support, as well as a discount at the Philharmonic Gift Kiosk/Book Table. The New York Philharmonic holds a yearly appreciation event to honor and celebrate the work of members of the Volunteer Council. The greatest benefit of all is knowing how much your assistance means to the New York Philharmonic season.

Application Process

The Volunteer Council accepts applications throughout the year; however, interviews of prospective members are conducted in the Spring and Fall of the year. New volunteers start their duties at the beginning of the upcoming concert season and work primarily with Philharmonic staff and other volunteers rather than with our musicians and guest artists.

Once the Volunteer Council receives and reviews your application, you may be invited to Avery Fisher Hall for a personal interview. If an offer of membership is extended to you, and you accept, you will be assigned a mentor to help you navigate your new role and responsibilities.

We thank you for your interest in the New York Philharmonic Volunteer Council.