Returning Musician Information

ALL Returning Silver Orchestra and Gold Symphony Musicians must complete the Fall 2026 Manhattan Youth Symphony Returning Musician Commitment Formby Friday, May 1, 2026 at 11:59 PM. This helps the conductors confirm your participation and/or audition choices in addition to those that are auditioning as a new participant or into another ensemble. 

Audition Information

NEW & Returning String Musicians seeking ensemble advancement. 

NEW & Returning Wind, Brass, and Percussion Musicians (Gold Symphony ONLY)

​Silver Orchestra Audition Requirements

  • Scales: 2-octave scales - prepare one major and one minor scale of your choice from the options below. Please perform separate quarter notes at a minimum 92 bpm.

    • Violin - C, G, D, A major; G, D melodic minor

    • Viola/Cello - F, C, G, D major; C, E, G melodic minor

    • Bass - E, G, F major; E, G melodic minor

  • Prepared Solo: Should demonstrate the player's most advanced ability. SO should be at least late Suzuki Book 2 or equivalent difficulty. This should be a composition written for a solo instrument, and not an orchestral part from school.

  • Sight Reading: A short excerpt will be provided at the audition.

A symphony, orchestra, and ensemble (much like a sports team, marching band, choir, etc) excels only when the collective membership works towards a common goal. If any one member is unable to play their part, the collective result is less than satisfactory. By its very nature, an orchestra relies on the unity of each section to create the masterpiece that was initially envisioned by each composer. This may be accomplished ONLY by commitment and hard work. The end result is rewarding and always magnificent.

Silver Orchestra

String Orchestra Experience