Join The CSYO

The CSYO program provides qualified students with an opportunity to perform in the Philharmonic Orchestra or Concert Orchestra. Acceptance into the ensembles depends on the strength of the applicant pool and is based on season repertoire. Auditions are open to students entering grades 8-12 who are prepared to commit to the CSYO rigorous rehearsal and concert schedule. Auditions are scheduled at 10-minute intervals and are heard by members of the CSO or other highly qualified local musicians. Specific instrumental requirements appear on the excerpt packet for each instrument located at the links below.

NO accompaniment is necessary for solo pieces.
Scales will be a part of your audition.
Family members are not allowed in the audition area after check-in.

Dates: August 23-25, 2024

Times: Applicants are notified of their audition date and time by email following receipt of the application and fee.

Location: Music Hall

Fee: $35 (non-refundable)

Deadline: Applications must be received by 5:00 PM Friday, August 5, 2024.

The 2024-2025 excerpts will be available on May 10, 2024. Excerpts from last season are available to use as a reference what to expect.

Audition excerpts for 2023-2024 Season

Undecided on your prepared solo piece? Look here for suggestions!

Audition FAQs

: Auditions will be held August 24-27, 2023 at Music Hall.
: No, there is a common room for warm-up.
: You should plan on arriving no more than thirty minutes prior to your scheduled audition. It is very important to make sure you allow yourself adequate travel time and look out for possible traffic or weather delays.
: Memorization is not required.
: Auditions are behind a screen so you will not be visible to the panel. Wear clothes that are comfortable to play and perform in. It would be a good idea to practice in the clothes that you are planning to wear at least once before your audition.
: Yes, any student may audition for the CSYO.
: The application fees are used to cover administrative costs of the auditions.
: Beats Per Minute! Use these markings to set your metronome to the right tempo when preparing for your audition.
: We strongly encourage students to audition on their primary instrument.
: Musicians of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. They will be sitting behind a screen so that they will not be able to see who is auditioning.
: Attendance requirements at rehearsals and performances are expected. Students are allowed a specific number of absences per concert cycle. If you know that you will have significant conflicts you might wish to reconsider auditioning for the program.
: Yes, financial aid information will be shared after audition results are announced.
: You should carefully read the student handbook for expectations.