Auditions
The Bainbridge Island Youth Orchestra holds annual auditions for the upcoming season at the end of summer, to place students in the Symphonic and Chamber Orchestras. Placement in the Prelude and Debut Orchestras is by teacher recommendation and does not require an audition; for more information please contact Justine Jeanotte at [email protected]. For mid-season auditions please submit a video-recording of your audition to Nathan Rødahl at [email protected].
- Prepare all excerpts from Set 1 to perform at your audition. Play each line to the best of your ability.
- If you would like to be considered for Chamber Orchestra, please also prepare Tracks 1-4 of Set C. Note: fingerings/bowings are suggestions only and not required.
- High school seniors: If you would like to be considered for a Senior Solo, please see the following application requirements.
Students should be prepared to experience the rehearsal process from both the front and the back of their section. Students will be seated based on balance of sound and the leadership needs of the orchestra. The best way to lead is by example and this includes every member of our ensemble, regardless of where you are seated: be the best example of a prepared and dedicated musician who is excited to engage in the rehearsal process.
Auditions for the 2023-2024 season will be held on Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10, at Bethany Lutheran Church. Please sign up below to reserve your spot.
Auditions for the 2023-2024 season will be held on Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10, at Bethany Lutheran Church. Please sign up below to reserve your spot.
Audition Excerpts
| Violin - Set 1 |
| Violin - Set C |
| Viola - Set 1 |
| Viola - Set C |
| Cello - Set 1 |
| Cello - Set C |
| Double Bass - Set 1 |
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Ensembles and Placement
Prelude Orchestra: Students who have completed Beginning Strings Sessions 1 & 2, or have studied with a private instructor for at least 6 months and are comfortable reading notes on the D and A strings, are eligible for this ensemble. We will play a variety of beginning orchestra repertoire, learn orchestra rehearsal techniques, basic music theory and the role of the conductor. Students are highly recommended to have a private instructor when joining this group.
Debut Orchestra: Students should feel comfortable reading in the keys of C, G, D, and A in first position with good intonation and have a basic understanding of rhythms. We will play a variety of orchestral repertoire. Completion of Suzuki book 1 or equivalent is suggested. No audition required; admission is by teacher recommendation.
Symphonic Orchestra: This performing ensemble is intended for students with proficient understanding of music reading and a mastery of the fundamental techniques of intonation and articulation. Students will experience a wide variety of repertoire and will hone their ability to interpret music more deeply while refining elements of rhythm and exploring extended techniques. This ensemble is open to all students who can confidently perform the WMEA Jr. All-State audition materials, and will perform music at and above that level of repertoire.
Chamber Orchestra: This orchestra is intended to take students who have proven their mastery of their instrument and their dedication to practice and rehearsal technique, and provide them with opportunities to play in an intimate ensemble where each member is held accountable for playing each note with accuracy and informed by a creative process. This ensemble will focus on creative musicianship, and will require each member to diligently prepare their parts prior to the rehearsal. Students accepted into this ensemble should expect to perform the WMEA All-State (High School) audition at or above a proficient level, and repertoire selected for chamber orchestra will reflect that level of preparation and proficiency.
Debut Orchestra: Students should feel comfortable reading in the keys of C, G, D, and A in first position with good intonation and have a basic understanding of rhythms. We will play a variety of orchestral repertoire. Completion of Suzuki book 1 or equivalent is suggested. No audition required; admission is by teacher recommendation.
Symphonic Orchestra: This performing ensemble is intended for students with proficient understanding of music reading and a mastery of the fundamental techniques of intonation and articulation. Students will experience a wide variety of repertoire and will hone their ability to interpret music more deeply while refining elements of rhythm and exploring extended techniques. This ensemble is open to all students who can confidently perform the WMEA Jr. All-State audition materials, and will perform music at and above that level of repertoire.
Chamber Orchestra: This orchestra is intended to take students who have proven their mastery of their instrument and their dedication to practice and rehearsal technique, and provide them with opportunities to play in an intimate ensemble where each member is held accountable for playing each note with accuracy and informed by a creative process. This ensemble will focus on creative musicianship, and will require each member to diligently prepare their parts prior to the rehearsal. Students accepted into this ensemble should expect to perform the WMEA All-State (High School) audition at or above a proficient level, and repertoire selected for chamber orchestra will reflect that level of preparation and proficiency.
