Auditioning for WMYO

 

WMYO is composed of members who are serious about their musical development, whether or not they intend to pursue a musical career.  Membership is a family affair, and parents are expected to assist with concert operations, public relations, and fundraising. 

Upon acceptance into WMYO, musicians are expected to:

     -  Attend all weekly rehearsals (normally Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM

        to 9:00 PM at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia)

     - Practice individual parts outside of rehearsal, if possible with the guidance

       of a private teacher, and come to rehearsal prepared to perform at their

       best

     - Attend dress rehearsals and concerts as outlined in the schedule

     - Commit to the success of WMYO

For more general information about WMYO, including tuition, visit the "About" section (link on left).

Audition Information

WMYO Auditions for the 2010-11 season will take place on:


Saturday, May 29, 2010, 9 AM – 4 PM

Tuesday, June 8, 2010, 7 PM – 10 PM

(Additional auditions will be available in the summer for any unfilled positions.  These positions will be posted on the website.)

Location:

Episcopal High School in Pendleton Hall/Ainslie Arts Center, 3900 W. Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA

To arrange an audition, call the Orchestra’s office at 703-799-8229 or send an email to wmpa@earthlink.net. When sending an email, be sure to include a telephone number so that the Orchestra’s administrator can call to set up the audition time.

The Music Director will telephone each person receiving an audition not later than June 13 to notify him/her of the audition’s results.

Requirements:


For all auditions: memorization is not required. No accompaniment. Auditions will be brief: less than 12 minutes.

  (1) Scales and arpeggios


• Strings: 3 octaves (bass 2 octaves), major and minor scales and arpeggios in keys up to 3 flats and 3 sharps
• Winds and percussion: 2.5 octaves, major, minor and chromatic scales and arpeggios in keys up to 3 flats and 3 sharps
• Harp: 3-4 octaves, major and minor scales and arpeggios in keys up to 3 flats and 3 sharps.

  (2) Prepared piece

Perform one prepared piece demonstrating your abilities. (Provide one copy of music for the judges)


Percussionists should prepare a short excerpt on timpani, snare drum, bells, and xylophone. Percussionists may bring their own snare drum to the
audition; WMYO will provide all other instruments.

  (3) Sight reading

 

Principal Chairs

Principal chairs are open to any qualified musician regardless of age or seniority at the beginning of the season. Auditions are conducted as appropriate by the Music Director. Audition performance and leadership skills are both considered when making a selection.