Percussion

  • Audition requirements are listed below for each PYO ensemble: Sinfonia Musica, Orchestra Nova, Peninsula Young Artists, and the Peninsula Youth Orchestra.

    All applicants must submit a recorded audition that includes scales, an etude or solo piece, and orchestra excerpts. 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. Please review the ensemble requirements to determine which audition you should prepare.

    Participating in your school's music program is an important part of being a PYO member. PYO strongly supports music education in schools, which offers students regular ensemble experience that complements their involvement in PYO. Together with private lessons, participation in both school music and PYO forms a well-rounded foundation for musical growth. We encourage and expect all musicians to be part of this important 'triangle' of learning and development. Musicians may be asked to provide proof of school music participation during the season.

  • SNARE SOLO - Required

    Example Books:

    MALLET SOLO - Optional

    Example Books:

    Xylophone/glockenspiel/marimba

  • SNARE SOLO - Required

    Example Books:

    MALLET SOLO - Optional

    Example Books:

    Xylophone/glockenspiel/marimba

  • SNARE SOLO - Required

    Example Books:

    MALLET SOLO - Optional

    Example Books:

    Xylophone/glockenspiel/marimba

  • SNARE DRUM

    1. Single Stroke Roll: Begin slowly, accelerate to fast, then return to slow

    2. Sustained Roll (Approximately 20 seconds)

      • Start as quiet as possible

      • Gradually crescendo, then decrescendo

      • End as quietly as possible

    SOLO OR ETUDE (Maximum total performance time: 5–7 minutes)

    Solo or etude of the student’s choice on two or more of the following instruments:

    • Timpani

    • Snare Drum

    • Mallet Percussion (Bells, Marimba, Vibraphone, or Xylophone)

APPLICATION FOR 2026-2027 SEASON