2020-2021 Audition Season Update: Due to Covid 19, all prospective students will audition via an electronic recording submission OR via “Zoom/Skype.” Click on the button above to register and pay the audition fee. After completing registration, students may submit a recording of a musical solo or etude of their choice along with 3 major and 3 melodic minor scales, sent electronically to davidweigert@wmpamusic.org.
Recorded Auditions can be submitted as one long track or multiple tracks at the discretion of the student. Alternatively, students wishing for a live audition may select a date and time slot in order to perform via Skype or Zoom for the Music Directors. Please indicate in the comments section of your registration which manner of audition you prefer. Feel free to email the Music Director at anytime with questions or concerns.
Recorded Auditions can be submitted as one long track or multiple tracks at the discretion of the student. Alternatively, students wishing for a live audition may select a date and time slot in order to perform via Skype or Zoom for the Music Directors. Please indicate in the comments section of your registration which manner of audition you prefer. Feel free to email the Music Director at anytime with questions or concerns.
WMYO Auditions
The WMYO is an orchestral training program for high school students who desire to perform symphonic, full-orchestra music of the highest caliber and difficulty level. The WMYO is also open to exceptionally talented and mature Middle School students that have a long history with a private teacher.
WMYO Current 2019-2020 Repertoire:
Beethoven, Symphony # 7
Holst, The Planets (with members of the Alexandria Choral Arts Society)
Virtuosi Concert: Student Concerto Soloists, TBA
Mahler, Symphony #5 (mvmts 1, 4, 5)
WMYO Tentative 2020-2021 Repertoire:
Mozart, Symphony # 40
Tchaikovsky, Nutcracker (Suites 1 and 2)
Virtuosi Concert: Student Concerto Soloists, TBA
John Williams: Star Wars Symphonic Suite, Jurassic Park, E.T., Indiana Jones
WMYO Current 2019-2020 Repertoire:
Beethoven, Symphony # 7
Holst, The Planets (with members of the Alexandria Choral Arts Society)
Virtuosi Concert: Student Concerto Soloists, TBA
Mahler, Symphony #5 (mvmts 1, 4, 5)
WMYO Tentative 2020-2021 Repertoire:
Mozart, Symphony # 40
Tchaikovsky, Nutcracker (Suites 1 and 2)
Virtuosi Concert: Student Concerto Soloists, TBA
John Williams: Star Wars Symphonic Suite, Jurassic Park, E.T., Indiana Jones
WMYO Audition Information
Auditions are for students grades 9 and higher
To arrange for an audition, first complete and submit the Audition Request Information Form and follow the instructions for paying the audition fee and scheduling your audition.
Audition Requirements:
All students should prepare one solo or etude, preferably demonstrating contrasting styles, dynamics, or tempi.
In addition to a solo, students should prepare major and minor scales in the same pattern as requested by their local district and regional orchestra auditions:
Lastly, all students will be asked to sight-read from the standard orchestral literature.
Note to Marching Band/Athletics Students: Brass Players and Percussionists, who will be participating in FCPS Marching Band and/or contests are able to begin enrollment in November and should include a note in the “activities” section of their application.
Audition Requirements:
All students should prepare one solo or etude, preferably demonstrating contrasting styles, dynamics, or tempi.
In addition to a solo, students should prepare major and minor scales in the same pattern as requested by their local district and regional orchestra auditions:
- Strings: 3 octaves (bass 2 octaves), major and melodic minor scales in keys up to 3 flats and 3 sharps
- Winds and Brass: 2 octaves, major and melodic minor scales in keys up to 3 flats and 3 sharps
- Harp: 3-4 octave scales, major and minor in keys up to 3 flats/sharps.
- Percussion: Please indicate in your application under "activities" which instruments you are proficient with. Preference will be shown to players who are comfortable tuning timpani, and are prepared to perform a solo, etude, or exercise on the following: Timpani, Mallets: Marimba/Xylo/Bells, and Snare Drum.
Lastly, all students will be asked to sight-read from the standard orchestral literature.
Note to Marching Band/Athletics Students: Brass Players and Percussionists, who will be participating in FCPS Marching Band and/or contests are able to begin enrollment in November and should include a note in the “activities” section of their application.
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.
Tuition for the WMYO is $750. Tuition covers the cost of music rentals, rehearsal and concert space, printing and postage, and other costs associated with running a youth orchestra. To learn more about WMYO Tuition and to pay the tuition, see the Tuition information page.
