Auditions Requirements

Thank you for your interest in auditioning for the Sacramento Youth Symphony! Each year, hundreds of talented young musicians audition for placement across our orchestras and ensembles. Our audition process is blind and competitive, with placements determined by overall score, instrumental needs, and ensemble skill levels.

🎼 How It Works

Step 1 — Submit Audition Fee

Non-refundable application fee: $40
Be sure to enter the musician’s name in the product options when you pay.

Step 2 — Complete the Audition Application

After payment, you’ll be redirected to the online application form.
Your confirmation email will come from POWR.

Step 3 — Audition Time Notification

Audition times are emailed by May 2nd to the address on your application.

Step 4 — Attend Your Audition

Bring your prepared music and scales to your scheduled audition time.
Please click on your instrument below for requirements.

Step 5 — Results

Audition results are emailed following the audition dates.

Step 6 — Acceptance & Registration

If accepted, confirm your position and complete registration.
Priority registration: July 1–10.

Open Auditions for the 2026-2027 season will be
held at CSUS, Capistrano Hall (Subject to Change)

Auditions will be May 23-24 and May 30-31.

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🎻 What to Prepare

1. Scales
Prepare the required scales for your instrument. Scales are evaluated on tone quality, tempo, intonation, and evenness.

2. Solo Selection
Choose a solo piece that represents your best playing. Prepared solos are evaluated on tone, technique, rhythm, intonation, musicianship, and use of vibrato where appropriate.

3. Sight-Reading
All auditions include a sight-reading component (standard or advanced) given on the audition date. Sight-reading is evaluated for rhythmic accuracy, note accuracy, and musicality.

Note: Minimum requirements vary by instrument and level. Please review the detailed requirements listed below each instrument on this page. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee placement at the desired level.

🎯 Audition Philosophy

Auditions are not for a specific ensemble — candidates are scored and then placed in the ensemble that best fits their ability and overall audition results.