Auditions
Placement auditions help our staff understand each student's current abilities so we can recommend the ensemble that best supports their success and growth.
Why Audition?
Auditions help MVYSO staff evaluate each student's current skills, strengths, and readiness so that every student is placed in an ensemble where they can be challenged, supported, and successful.
The goal of an audition is not simply to assign a student to an orchestra. It is to help ensure that students continue developing as musicians while contributing meaningfully to their ensemble.
Ways to Audition
In-Person Auditions
Students perform for a panel of MVYSO educators during a scheduled audition appointment.
Approximately 10 minutes long.
Recorded for staff review.
Students should arrive early to warm up.
Video Auditions
Students who are unable to attend an in-person audition may submit a video audition following the instructions provided in the audition materials.
Video submission instructions are included with the audition materials.
Before You Schedule an Audition
Students must complete registration before scheduling an audition.
After submitting a registration form, our registrar will contact you with information about audition options, scheduling, and next steps.
If you have not yet registered, please visit the Registration page to begin the enrollment process.
Audition Requirements
String Players
Students should prepare:
Scale(s)
Three consecutive audition excerpts
A solo piece or etude (2–3 minutes)
Winds, Brass & Percussion
Students should prepare:
Scale(s)
Three consecutive audition excerpts
A solo piece or etude (2–3 minutes)
Audition materials are organized by instrument rather than ensemble level.
How to Prepare
Preparation helps students feel more confident and allows the audition panel to better understand their current abilities.
We recommend:
Practicing regularly before your audition
Using a tuner to check pitch accuracy
Practicing with a metronome
Following dynamics and expression markings
Working with a private teacher when possible
Private lessons are strongly encouraged for students participating in orchestra programs.
Audition Materials
Audition music is organized by instrument, you may download your sheet music below:
Ambassador Ensembles
Advanced Symphony Orchestra students may indicate their interest in participating in Elite Strings or Elite Winds. Participation in Ambassador Ensembles is by invitation only and requires an additional commitment form.