2026-2027 Audition Information

UPDATE: All auditions for the 2026–2027 school year will be conducted via video submission. This change was made to create a process more aligned with HCYO and other youth orchestras, with the goal of reducing adjustments as students transition to high school.

We understand that this is a new process and may represent a significant change, but it was implemented after careful consideration by the MSGT directors. We have also thoughtfully selected audition excerpts to help reduce the time commitment, stress, and technical demands on students who are auditioning for multiple groups.

 

Audition Materials

Similar to previous years, auditions will consist of four (4) major scales and two (2) excerpts. They can be found in the document linked here. The formatting allows for them to be read easier when printed for practicing.

 

Audition application process

All applications and audition videos for the 2026-2027 season will be due on May 31st by 11:59pm.  

Our process for auditions is as follows:

1) Review the audition requirements for your instrument and prepare the audition materials.  Be sure to listen to reference recordings.

2) Create a recording that you will submit. Here are some guidelines:

  • Find a place to record that is free of distractions and resonant enough to capture the sound of your instrument.

  • Lighting should be in front of you and should orient yourself toward the camera in a way where your technique is visible. 

  • Record your audition in one take.  While you may make several attempts to record, you may not splice together different elements of the audition.

  • The audition recording should begin with an introduction: Include your name, the school you are attending next year, and your grade for next year.  The audition requirements should be played in the order they are listed on the audition requirements page.

  • You are not permitted to edit your recording after it is made.  Videos that use sound editing or video editing software will be disqualified.

  • Upload your video to YouTube using your personal email account.  The title of your recording should be (Your Name), (Instrument), and “2026 MSGT Audition.”  Use the “Unlisted” privacy option.  Here is an instructional video that shows you how to set the video to unlisted. https://youtu.be/W1jnptpEC7c

    • Please ignore the mention of an HCPSS YouTube account.  That option is only for high school students.

3) Once you have your video, please click here to fill out an application.

4) All applications must be received by May 31st.  It is highly recommended that you submit a few days early so that any problems you encounter can be resolved prior to the deadline.  There are no extensions to this deadline.