Orchestra Admission

Applicants, except those who will perform on mallet instruments, tympani or piano, must bring their own instruments.  Percussionists must bring their own sticks and mallets. If applicants want to be heard on more than one instrument, they must bring all instruments to the audition. Please notate on the application that you will be auditioning for more than one instrument.

One prepared selection of at least three minutes duration is recommended (Check FBA or FOA music list for suggestions).  All-County and/or All-State material may be used as additional material.

Winds: Eight major scales from memory, complete with arpeggios, at a minimum tempo of MM quarter note = 120. Scales are to be performed a minimum of 2 octaves where possible. Students who wish to play a 3rd octave may do so. Scales must be performed in complete octaves. The scales are to be tongued (winds) ascending and slurred descending where applicable. The student will be asked to perform scales in their transposed form. Scales will be performed in the following order, starting with the concert key of: A, D, G, C, F, Bb, Eb, and Ab.

Strings: The following major scales and arpeggios must be performed from memory: C, G, D, A, E, F, Bb, Eb, Ab.  Violins must be able to perform the G major scale three octaves, all others scales two octaves.  Violas and cellos must be able to perform the C major scale three octaves, all others scales two octaves.  Double bass must be able to perform E, F, and G scales two octaves, all others scales one octave.

Wind and percussion applicants must prepare a chromatic scale covering the range for the instrument (as given in the All-State Middle School Audition Requirements.) The scale will be performed in even eighth notes at a minimum tempo of MM quarter note = 144. The scale will be tongued (winds) ascending and slurred descending where applicable. Scale is to be memorized.

Sight-reading will be required.  Judges will supply material, which will demonstrate knowledge of rhythm, articulation, and dynamics.  An accompanist is highly desirable in order to enhance the applicant's audition.  Recordings or tapes will be permitted as accompaniment only if the sound quality is acceptable.  A play-back system will be provided.  A piano and music stand will be provided for all others.  The applicant will also participate in a personal interview.