Application & Audition FAQs
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Applications are currently open and accepted on a rolling basis.
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To help support our audition process and program operations a $25 application fee is required. Details on how to submit payment will be provided after your application is submitted. If this fee creates a hardship please don't hesitate to reach out to us to discuss available options.
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We will be accepting and reviewing video recorded auditions for the 2026-2027 season.
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Please review our audition requirements page to learn more about what you need to prepare for your audition.
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We are currently accepting auditions for the 2026-2027 season on a rolling basis.
Review the audition requirements for your instrument type to determine which group you would like to audition for.
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VIDEO AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
10 minutes or less
Unedited (recorded start to finish in one take)
Unaccompanied (no piano accompaniment)
Ensure you and your instrument are clearly in view. We need to see your bowing, fingering, embouchure, etc.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR VIDEO
1.) Create a YouTube account. (If you have a Google account, you already have a YouTube account and can skip to Step Two)
Go to YouTube.com
In the far-right corner, click “SIGN IN”
Enter your email if you have a Google account. If not, click “Create an account” and follow the directions.
You are now logged into YouTube.
2.) Record your video on your phone or other device and upload it to your computer. (You can upload your video directly from your phone to the YouTube app, but you will need to complete the process on the full YouTube site, not the app.)
3.) Upload your video to YouTube. Skip (*) steps if you have already set up your YouTube channel.
Ensure you are logged into YouTube. (If not, go to YouTube.com and log in.)
(*) Click “Get Started”
(*) Follow directions to create your channel (you can skip adding links to your site) and click “Save & Continue”
In the upper right corner, click the camera icon and then “Upload video”
Select your file to upload, or drag and drop the video file on the screen.
Title your video: FirstName.LastName.Instrument (e.g., Jane.Doe.Violin)
In the Description box: Include your name, the scales you are playing, and the title of your pieces.
Under “Audience,” select “No, it’s not made for kids” and then click “Next.”
Skip “Video elements” and click “Next.”
Under “Visibility,” select “Unlisted” and then click “Save.”
4.) Submit your video to info@peninsulayouthorchestra.org. You're done!
CONTACT US: auditions@peninsulayouthorchestra.org
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Please review our program informationand audition requirements to help you choose which ensemble to audition for.
We recommend you choose the ensemble with audition requirements that best match your current playing level.
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It is normal for students to spend 1–2 or more seasons in the same ensemble. Advancement is based on individual readiness, and students are promoted when it best supports their musical growth. This approach helps ensure the most meaningful and successful educational experience for each musician.
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You will be considered for all PYO ensembles regardless of what is indicated in your application. You will receive an ensemble placement based on the playing represented in your video recorded audition.
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PYO’s Artistic Staff will review your audition.
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You are welcome to memorize your music, but it is not a requirement.
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Musicians will be evaluated on posture, tone, intonation, rhythmic control, technique, articulation, dynamics, expression, and preparation. All musicians must be able to read musical notation.
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You will be notified of your audition results via email after review by our artistic staff. It typically takes 1-2 weeks to review an application and audition video.
Other Questions
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Yes! We encourage all applicants to observe, and even participate in, a rehearsal.
Please email info@peninsulayouthorchestra.org for more information.
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2025-2026 YEARLY TUITION RATES (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
Sinfonia Musica: $1,150
Orchestra Nova: $1,150
Peninsula Young Artists: $1,275
Peninsula Youth Orchestra: $1,600
Debut Strings: $1,150
Concordia Strings: $1,150
Chamber Flutes: $1,150
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PYO strives to ensure our programs are accessible to all students. We are proud to offer financial aid options for families where cost may be a barrier to participation.
To learn more, please reach out to info@peninsulayouthorchestra.org
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Rehearsal for all ensembles run from September through May. Please visit out programs page to review detailed information:
Rehearsals are where the real learning and growth happen. Each time the orchestra comes together, we strengthen not only the music but also our ability to listen, collaborate, and support one another as musicians. Regular attendance helps you stay connected to your section and ensures that the orchestra can progress as a team. If conflicts with attendance arise, our music directors will work with you to find the best way forward so that both you and the ensemble can have a positive and successful experience.
Making music together is at the heart of PYO. Every rehearsal and concert is an important step in building both the ensemble’s sound and each musician’s individual skills. While practicing at home is valuable, it cannot replace the unique experience of learning and performing as a group. Consistent attendance allows you and your section to grow together and helps the entire orchestra reach its full potential.
We understand that from time to time, unavoidable conflicts may arise. To support both you and the ensemble, we allow up to two excused absences per concert cycle. If more than two absences are necessary, a student may not be permitted to perform in a concert unless approved by the director. Students may be asked to submit recordings of selected repertoire for the concert to be permitted to perform.