A GUIDLINE OF AUDITION LEVELS

Nassau & Suffolk Principal and Nassau Symphony Orchestras: Auditionees should have successfully completed a NYSSMA* level 6 solo on a string, wind or percussion instrument, and be prepared to audition on a similar solo.

Suffolk Concert Orchestra: Auditionees should have successfully completed a NYSSMA* level 5 solo on a string, wind or percussion instrument, and be prepared to audition on a similar solo.

Long Island Youth Chorale: Auditionees should have completed a Level 5 or 6 vocal NYSSMA* solo evaluation and be prepared to audition on a similar solo on the appropriate voice part.

Nassau Concert Orchestra: Auditionees should have successfully completed a NYSSMA* level 5 or 6 solo on a string, wind or percussion instrument and be prepared to audition on a similar solo.

Nassau & Suffolk String Orchestras: Auditionees should have successfully completed a NYSSMA* level 4 or 5 solo on a string instrument (all string ensemble) and be prepared to audition on a similar solo.

Suffolk Children's Chorus (4-8), Nassau Treble Chorus (4-6), Nassau Concert Choir (7&8): Auditionees should be in grades 4-8 and be able to sing on pitch. A familiar song is sufficient for audition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an accompanist for the audition?
No.  Auditions should be performed unaccompanied.

What if I did not attend NYSSMA?
Attending NYSSMA is not a requirement to audition for MYO.  The NYSSMA Manual of graded solos is used as a standard of pieces that are characteristic of certain levels of musical skill development. Solos not listed in the manual are acceptable for a MYO audition.  The judge will make a determination as to the appropriate level of musical skill.

Elementary school singers rarely participate in a NYSSMA adjudication. A prepared song or a patriotic song is appropriate for a Children's Choir audition.

Do I need to prepare scales?
It is good to know your scales but you will not be asked to perform scales during your audition.

How long is the audition?
Auditions usually last between eight and ten minutes.

When will I find out if I was accepted?
You will be informed at the audition when to expect an answer.  Usually decisions regarding spring auditions are mailed within a week.

Where are the Nassau rehearsals held?
All Nassau MYO ensembles rehearse at Herricks High School or Middle School on Tuesday evenings, between 7 PM and 9:30 PM during the school year. Both schools are in Nassau County, on Long Island, near LIE exits 35 and 36.

Where are the Suffolk Rehearsals Held?
The MYO Suffolk Orchestras & Choir rehearses at Sachem East High School on Thursday evenings from 7 PM to 9:30 PM. The school is near the LIE at exit 63. Occasionally rehearsals are switched to Samoset Middle School in Lake Ronkonkoma.

What Is The Participation Fee?
The participation fee for the 2011-12 season is between $525 and $550, depending on the ensemble. . There is a slight reduction for siblings and some scholarship funds are available, by application.

Once accepted, is there a progression sequence through the orchestra levels?
We try to maintain a skill level and age level balance in each of the ensembles.  The normal progression through orchestras begins with String, then Concert, then Symphony (in Nassau), then Principal Orchestras.

Is regular attendance important?
Attendance at MYO rehearsals is critical and members should make a serious, personal commitment to attend all rehearsals and concerts prior to joining.

What is NYSSMA?
NYSSMA refers to the New York State School Music Association's manual of graded solos for adjudication. Comparable solos are listed with New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut music educators associations.