All students wishing to join the NJSYO must audition. Please refer to the audition requirements below for the appropriate orchestra or ensemble and then register here.
Note that auditions are progressive, and so although all audition elements must be prepared you will not necessarily be asked to present them all. Please also note that if an applicant is not deemed ready for audition to a particular orchestra, the NJSYO will automatically consider the applicant for a group suitable to the student’s age, experience and ability.
** IMPORTANT: STUDENTS WILL REMAIN IN THE ORCHESTRA THEY AUDITIONED FOR AND WERE ACCEPTED INTO FOR THE ENTIRE SEASON, UNLESS MOVED INTO A MORE FOUNDATIONAL GROUP BY CONDUCTOR REQUEST. **
Preparatory String Orchestra 2023-2024
The Preparatory String Orchestra (PSO) is open to string players who are in the 2nd grade and above and are able to sigh-read music, on an audition basis. The PSO is designed to introduce students to playing together and listening to one another. Students will gain foundational skills in orchestral playing and further develop their music reading ability. Students must also be taking private lessons in their instrument as well.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bGJSksgp4wa-qHXIFYl25Arqkry3HTrL8I3KGTMBYuI/edit?usp=sharing
Intermediate String Orchestra 2023-2024
The Intermediate String Orchestra (ISO) is open to string players who are able to proficiently sight-read music and are in the 5th grade and above, on an audition basis. The ISO is designed to expose students to the orchestral repertoire, and to hone skills in orchestral playing. Students must also be taking private lessons in their instrument as well.
All Applicants:
All applicants should bring 2 photocopies of their prepared solo pieces for use by the audition committee.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/15akdIKpREKsfjg6RsoneZj625lir4d4c2fw-4rAzZAw/edit?usp=sharing
Symphonic Youth Orchestra 2023-2024
The Symphonic Youth Orchestra (SYO) is open to string, woodwind, brass, and percussion players in the 9th grade and above. The SYO performs the full symphonic repertoire, and provides advanced orchestral experience for young musicians. Students must also be taking private lessons in their instrument as well.
NJSYO Chamber Ensemble 2023-2024
*All selections are expected to be performed with appropriate (and steady) tempo, articulations, dynamics, and vibrato, with good intonation and tone, strong rhythm, and musical maturity. Members must be at least 13 years old, or at least in the 8th grade.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/12uKkTg8NtPHwKYxyIS0mpOQd3DKAWdHOe1Qgc4_hqww/edit?usp=sharing
All Applicants:
All applicants should bring 2 photocopies of their prepared solo pieces for use by the audition committee.