As a parent, you know it’s important to encourage your child as he or she takes on new hobbies and learns new skills. And if music is their calling, it might be time to go beyond the private lessons to exploring outside performance opportunities, which can be a huge part of his or her development as a musician!
Youth orchestras are a fantastic way to get involved, and the DC area has several to choose from. The following are a few of the most prominent DC youth orchestra groups for which your child can audition to gain experience:
-
The DC Youth Orchestra Program (DCYOP)– Young musicians of all levels — starting as young as 4 1/2 — can audition for the DC Youth Orchestra Program. Students will need to know their scales, as they will be required to perform all of the major and melodic minor scales during their auditions. Also, auditioning musicians are required to perform two contrasting movements or solo pieces. Judges may also ask musicians to show their ability to sight read.
-
Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras– Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras runs three different orchestras and a variety of other performance groups for musicians between grades 3 and 12. Audition material for these groups includes scales, a solo, sight reading, and an orchestral excerpt. Participants are also required to take regular private lessons throughout the season.
-
The Capitol Symphonic Youth Orchestras (TCSYO)– Outstanding musicians under the age of 18 can participate in one of the two orchestras run by TCSYO — a chamber orchestra and a symphonic orchestra. Those who audition must perform scales and a prepared excerpt based on instrument, as well as demonstrate sight reading ability.
-
Blues Alley Youth Orchestra– Those who are more interested in big band jazz music than classical music can participate in the Blues Alley Youth Orchestra. This orchestra is made up of musicians between the ages of 14 and 17, and calls for a variety of instruments. During auditions, musicians are expected to play a prepared selection, which is chosen for them, along with their own selection. Auditioning musicians must also perform scales and demonstrate their ability to improvise.
The McLean Youth Orchestra– Auditions for the McLean Youth Orchestra are held throughout the year depending on the orchestra’s needs. Musicians in the orchestra are between the ages of 12 and 18. However, talented younger musicians are sometimes considered. Audition requirements are listed on the orchestra’s website and include performing certain scales, sight reading, and an excerpt that varies by instrument.
In addition to finding these opportunities in your area, part of your job as a parent is to motivate and encourage your child in the process! Your music teacher will assign specific exercises to practice, of course, but make sure you’re providing the right practice space and the equipment your child needs to succeed. Here are some additional ways you can support your child along the way:
- Listen to recorded versions of any piece that must be performed at the audition together. This will help young musicians learn how the piece should sound and how the piece is typically performed.
- Carry out mock auditions. Going through the entire audition procedure a few times beforehand will make things feel familiar and natural at the actual audition.
- Encourage your child to relax. Relaxing is the most important part of preparing for any type of audition, especially if they are feeling stage fright!
Good luck with the audition!
Suzy S.