Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Students in grades 6–12 from public, parochial, private, and home school settings are eligible to audition for PYSO.
PYSO is designed to complement a student’s existing music education, not replace it. We encourage all musicians to remain active in their school music programs and to continue private study, as both are important parts of musical growth and success in the orchestra.
Yes, there is a non-refundable $35 fee to audition for PYSO. Please bring a check with you on the audition day made out to “PYSO” or submit an online payment.
On the audition application we ask which PYSO ensemble you are auditioning for. This assists PYSO staff when scheduling specific audition times with members of the audition panel. During your audition, you will be considered for all PYSO ensembles. For example, even if you select the “String Orchestra” as your preferred ensemble, you will also be considered for the Symphony and the Philharmonic.
On the application, please note if you have certain restrictions and need to be placed at a specific time range (morning, afternoon, not on Saturday, etc). While we try and accommodate all requests, please be flexible and provide multiple availabilities.
On the application, please note if you are carpooling with another applicant to the audition. We do our best to accommodate requests.
Audition times will be scheduled by instrument, room, and other logistics to ensure a smooth and organized process for everyone. Each student will be assigned a specific audition time, and all auditions must be scheduled in advance.
Your audition time will be sent via email around May.
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Alex Chu, Director of Education and Community Engagement, at achu@PasadenaSymphony-Pops.org.
AUDITION PREPARATION
No, your solo piece for the PYSO audition does not need to be memorized. Please bring a second copy of the solo part for the audition panel.
No, PYSO auditions are performed un-accompanied.
How Auditions Are Evaluated
Auditions are heard by a panel of PYSO conductors, coaches, and members of our artistic team. Each student is evaluated holistically based on the following areas:
Scales
Students are asked to perform two scales of their choice and the panel’s choice. Judges listen for:
- Accuracy of notes and intonation
- Consistency of tone
- Overall control and tempo
- Technical comfort across the range of the instrument
Prepared Piece
Your prepared solo is an important part of your audition. The panel listens for:
- Technique and physical approach to your instrument
- Tone quality and sound production
- Intonation and rhythm
- Musicality, expression, and style
- Overall level of difficulty and preparation
Sight Reading
Students will be asked to sight-read short excerpts at their ability level. This helps the panel assess:
- Reading accuracy
- Rhythmic stability
- Ability to adjust and learn quickly in a musical setting
Excerpts (if applicable)
Applicants for Sinfonia and Philharmonic may be asked to perform orchestral excerpts. These are evaluated based on similar criteria, with an emphasis on musical style, accuracy, and readiness for ensemble playing.
Additional Considerations
The panel also considers overall musicianship, consistency, and potential for growth. Leadership, awareness, and how a student might fit within an ensemble are also taken into account.
AUDITION DAY LOGISTICS
Auditions take place at Pasadena High School (2925 E Sierra Madre Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91107). Plan to arrive approximately 30 minutes before your audition to allow for adequate warm-up time.
When you arrive at Pasadena High School, please check in at the registration table. We’ll point you toward the warm-up space so you can get settled before your audition. When it’s your turn, a volunteer will come to escort you to the audition room.
Each audition is heard by a panel of 1–2 judges, which may include a PYSO conductor, coach, or other member of the PYSO community. Your audition will take about 15 minutes.
During the audition, the panel may ask you to move between excerpts, scales, or sight-reading. This is completely normal and simply helps them hear different parts of your playing. You may also be asked a few questions about your musical background, including your school ensemble and private lessons.
There is a communal warm-up room at the audition location. There is also a seating area for family members.
There’s no set dress code for auditions, but we encourage students to dress neatly and comfortably. Think of it as a chance to make a good first impression—your audition panel may include PYSO conductors and coaches. Wear something you feel confident and comfortable performing in.
Bring your instrument and any accessories you might need, such as rosin, a shoulder rest, extra reeds, or strings—just in case. You do not need to bring a music stand. Please bring at least two extra copies of your music for the judges, in addition to your own copy.
AFTER THE AUDITION
The primary factor in placement is each student’s playing. The audition panel evaluates tone, intonation, rhythm, musicality, and technique across the prepared solo, scales, and sight-reading. The panel looks at the full audition to understand each student’s overall level and readiness.
While placement is based first and foremost on performance, instrumentation needs within each ensemble may also be taken into consideration to help balance the group.
PYSO does not place students based on grade level, and all placement decisions are final.
Results will be sent via email in June.