Orchestral musicians have unusually challenging jobs. Many musicians have had to move to a new city for their careers and work odd hours that separate them from the support of family and friends. There are exacting physical demands, and training for their livelihoods starts at a very young age. Auditioning for a job is highly competitive, and the tenure process is rigorous. At work, orchestral musicians are required to offer up the most vulnerable and free parts of their artistic and emotional selves while simultaneously following exacting instructions outlined in their contracts, printed in the music, and given by section leaders and conductors. These factors create a huge personal and emotional investment, and it is difficult to establish autonomy.
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