Entrance into Next Level Ensemble
Entrance into Reading Orchestra
There are no formal audition requirements for the Reading Orchestra. Students should be beginning the music reading process. It is suggested that violinists, violists, and cellists be in Suzuki Book 2 or above, and bassists be able to play in half position, 1st and 2nd positions. An entry interview is recommended, but not required.
Entrance into Auditioned Ensembles
Formal entry into Prep, Concert, and Symphony Orchestras; Senior Chorale; and Jazz Big Bands is by audition only. Students are assigned to an Orchestra or Big Band based on their age, their ability, and the needs of the programs. Some students may be allowed to participate in an older ensemble, but must also participate in their age-appropriate group. Placement remains the sole responsibility of the Program Directors.
Students in an MYA ensemble interested in auditioning for the next level ensemble receive priority placement in that ensemble if their performance is the same as a new auditionee, but must audition for the next level ensemble in May/June or when an opening occurs. The audition includes scales, prepared solos of the student’s choosing, and a sight reading excerpt provided by MYA.
Many students elect to remain in their orchestra for an extra year or more because they are more comfortable and realize the educational benefits of doing so. They are seen as the leaders in that ensemble and gain valuable experience, confidence and technical growth. This makes them more successful when they audition and are selected to enter the next older ensemble.
Midway through second semester all students will be asked to indicate their interest in participating the following year by signing a letter of intent and making a deposit which will be credited toward their fall tuition. This is done to determine openings for the following year.
Auditions for new students into the program will be scheduled in March and April of each year. Students who are accepted into the Program will be notified by mid-May. Students who have auditioned and become unavailable should contact the Midwest Young Artists office immediately. If open positions are not filled at that time, the position will remain open for auditions until it is filled. If there are more than enough qualified students for the open position, a priority waiting list will be developed and students will be called when an opening occurs. Students will be billed for tuition before Fall Semester begins.
Younger students “playing up” in older orchestras/big bands
New students admitted to MYA programs must play in their age appropriate ensembles. The Symphony Orchestra/Big Band is for students grades 10 to 12; the Concert Orchestra is for students in grades 7 to 9; the Prep Orchestra is for students through grade 6; and the Reading Class is for students in grades 5 and under and for older grade school students who are beginning their study. Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble grades are at the discretion of the Director.
Occasionally younger students are allowed to participate in an older orchestra/big band. This offers them the technical challenge desired. But the social fit and the desire for other older ensemble members to have colleagues their own age can create problems. The age appropriate orchestra is the main ensemble and attendance will be based on participation in that group.
All students need to learn to be leaders as well as followers. Too often students think that if they are not technically challenged, then the experience is not worthwhile. They do not see that they can challenge themselves in different ways. They should realize that learning to be a leader, to help others, to work to do something absolutely perfectly is important as well.
Recruiting
MYA has grown to its current size and quality as a result of the efforts of our members in encouraging outstanding instrumentalists and singers to audition to be a part of the organization. The larger and more complete the pool of auditionees, the better the quality of the choruses, orchestras, jazz bands, and chamber music ensembles. Please help us continue our qualitative growth by encouraging highly interested and motivated students to be a part of our programs. By simply sharing your experiences with others, you help ensure a quality ensemble in which to perform.
