I've been working with a coach and practicing at any available hour for the past year+ to win a job, but not only has my progress stalled, but random health problems are starting to set me back. In the past burnout has just been a normal part of the process, and I wouldn't be worried about feeling strained. Heck, my peers who are now working in orchestras often described the dark places they had to go through in order to be winners. But insomnia, brain fog, and headaches are getting in the way of practicing. If I'm not the most talented I am committed to being the hardest worker in an audition roster, but there are days I just want to quit because I don't get feedback on why I don't advance. I don't know if I'm putting enough effort in, need to swallow my pride and double down, or take an occasional afternoon off.

On the increasingly rare occasions I do get feedback from my prelims, it's always a technical shortcoming that holds me back. Positive feedback is either a "good" or a checkmark but little else. I never hear about committees describing the winner's audition performances. What makes them stand out? Technical polish? Stylistic literacy and knowledge? Creativity? Flexibility on immediate feedback? It would be good for me to spend some time pursuing what sets the winners apart as opposed to my typical mode of avoiding mistakes.

They hold auditions for multiple positions every year. Is there a high attrition rate? No hires? Delegating one-year contracts to subs? I'd like to know if it's even worth trying if there are shady practices afoot.

Orchestra I'm auditioning for auto-advanced me to semis because of my resumé, but I think it was an accident. For example, being a member of a London Symphony Orchestra (regional), but not the London Symphony Orchestra. My resumé makes it pretty clear I'm with a former, not latter. I'm considering following up with management to clarify this wasn't an accident, but second opinions are welcome.