Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I have to re-audition if I am a current member?
  All current members are required to re-audition each year. Please note that current orchestra assignment level is not guaranteed.

• How do I know which orchestra to audition for?
  Refer to the orchestra descriptions and required skills and consult with your private lesson teacher to determine the orchestra that best suits your skill level.

• If I don’t make it into the orchestra I audition for, will I be considered for the next level down?
  Musicians are ranked by their audition score. If they do not place in the orchestra they auditioned for, they may be offered a position in a lower orchestra. For example, if you audition for Symphonic Orchestra, you could be offered a position in Chamber Orchestra. It is best to audition for the orchestra that best matches your ability – do not over-reach.

• Do I need to memorize my music?
  Memorization is not required unless specified in the audition requirements.

• Do I need an accompanist for the audition?
  No. Piano accompaniment is not permitted.

• How much do scales count on my audition score?
  Auditions are made up of two main components, and each one is an important part of your audition. The different audition components are weighted as follows:
  Scales – 40%
  Excerpts & Solos/Etudes – 60%

• What are the judges looking for in an audition?
  Audition judges are assessing/scoring on such factors as rhythm, intonation, musicality, tone and technique.

• Why can’t I use my All-State or Region etude as one of my audition pieces?
  With so many different levels of students applying for TCSYO orchestras, our goal is for students to prepare music specifically for this audition. Since high schools use a state mandated etude each year, TCSYO includes this restriction to reinforce our intention that we do not want students to recycle an etude that they may have worked on for 6 months. This concept applies to middle school students and the etudes that are used in your region. As far as other etudes are concerned, the musician and teacher have to make the best decision on what audition music best suits each student for the orchestra level they are auditioning.

  Please contact us if you have further questions.