How to Submit a Video Audition
STEP
01
REGISTER
Fill out the Video Audition Registration Form
- Pay the $20 registration fee (email us at auditions@cyorchestra.org if the fee is a financial hardship)
Read the Audition FAQs
STEP
02
PRACTICE
- Download your instrument’s audition packet (found at the bottom of this page)
- PRACTICE! Rehearse both your music and recording your audition.
STEP
03
AUDITION
- Record your video audition
- Upload your continuous, unedited audition video to YouTube as an unlisted video
- Email your recording link to us at auditions@cyorchestra.org
- Optional: Ask us for a pre-audition assessment before you submit a final video
Make a great video audition!
Please note that CYO has simplified our requirements to make it easier for you to record and submit a video audition. Your video audition only needs to include the following items listed in your instrument’s Audition Packet: 1. A solo piece; 2. The required excerpt(s) listed in the Packet; 3. One (1) major scale and one (1) melodic minor scale of your choice and style.
You may choose from two levels: Advanced and Intermediate. Advanced Packets include more challenging excerpts than Intermediate Packets and are designed for students who have experience with auditions. The Intermediate Packet is designed for students who have little or no experience with the audition process. Your choice of Advanced or Intermediate will not influence the panelists’ judgment of your audition. All students who audition will be considered for all CYO ensembles.
Percussionists: Only record the required snare drum material and provide a list of performed keyboard works (etudes, excepts, solos). You are NOT required to submit timpani or mallet videos.
We encourage you to consult with your Private Instructor and School Orchestra or Band Director to decide which level Audition Packet you should select.
Audition FAQ's
When you audition for CYO, you are auditioning for recommended placement in one or more of our ensembles. Placement is based on available seats, musicality and technical ability. Our goal through the audition process is for all musicians who have auditioned to be placed in an ensemble where they will continue to grow as individuals and ensemble players.
The orchestra season follows the school calendar and consists of 3-4 public concerts. Rehearsals are held every Saturday from 8:30 am - 12:30 pm on our home stage at Cuyahoga Community College, Metro Campus. Orchestra members also participate in monthly sectionals led by professional musicians. Sectionals are held on Tuesday evenings with an additional pre-concert dress rehearsal on Thursday immediately prior to a performance.
Our Chamber Music Program includes two different levels: Advanced and Intermediate. Our Advanced Chamber Section is comprised of our best students who are specifically chosen based on technical proficiency. The Advanced level is designed for students who play at the highest level and/or who plan to pursue music beyond high school. The Chamber experience is distinct, and our Advanced level will elevate students' technical and artistic ability.
The Intermediate Level is designed for students who seek experience playing in smaller ensembles and who are looking to improve their skills through small-group training with expert coaches. The student to teacher ratio in this program is low, giving coaches the ability to tailor rehearsals and performances to the specific needs of students.
Both levels meet weekly on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Rehearsals take place at our home facility at Cuyahoga Community College, Metro Campus.
You may choose from two levels of Audition Packets: Advanced and Intermediate. Advanced Packets include more challenging excerpts than Intermediate Packets, and we encourage you to consult with your Private Instructor and School Orchestra or Band Director to decide which level you should select.
We recognize that this may be your first audition, and we are giving you two different levels to choose from to make your audition more comfortable. Your choice will not influence the panelists' judgment of your audition. All students will be considered for all CYO ensembles.