SYO Prep Guide to Auditions
What is the orchestral training program?
SYO has many different orchestras and ensembles – each for a different stage of musical learning.
The SYO Strings Program caters to string players from their first year of playing, starting with SYO Prep going up to Stage 3, when musicians progress to the Symphonic Orchestral Program. From Stage 1 onwards, all SYO musicians must re-audition each year.
The Symphonic Orchestral Program caters for string, brass, woodwind and percussion players from AMEB Grade 5 or equivalent.
The Sydney Youth Orchestra is the top tier of our orchestral training program and attracts the best pre-professional musicians from across the state.
About the Orchestras
Why do SYO musicians audition every year?
There are two main reasons that we ask SYO musicians to audition each year:
- Individual players progress at different rates. Each year there will be some players from an ensemble who are ready to face the challenges of another ensemble and some who will benefit more from continuing with their current group.
2. There will be new musicians auditioning for Sydney Youth Orchestras each year. By hearing all players new and existing, we can be sure that our standards are high, and that placement is fair for everyone. This provides balance within each ensemble and maximum benefit for its members
I would like to progress to Stage 1, what do I do?
We’re so excited that you feel ready to take on the next step in SYO’s Orchestral Training Program. All musicians who wish to join Stage 1 and up need to complete an audition.
The best way to do your best in your audition is to start preparing for your audition early and work with your instrument teacher to prepare.
