Auditions

AUDITIONS

The GVYO is now accepting applications for new and returning players. Auditions are held annually for violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion, and harp.

Auditions for the 2025-2026 season will be held in-person by appointment on the following dates:
April 17 - Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion (applications due April 9)
May 20 to 22 - Strings, Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion (applications due May 12).

Apply to audition by completing a GVYO membership form at your earliest opportunity.

You will be notified by email with the date, time and location of your audition. If you are unable to attend your audition you must promptly notify the GVYO manager at [email protected].

Audition materials are available below, for download.

Qualified applicants are:

currently having private lessons on your instrument, and your teacher approves of your intention to audition.
are playing at a suggested "minimum standard" of proficiency, which is considered to be Royal Conservatory of Music Grade VIII or equivalent for your instrument.

The audition will consist of:

a specified set of excerpts from the orchestral repertoire for your instrument (see below)
a solo piece of your choice, for example: a standard concerto or similar work for your instrument. An accompanist is not required.
for string players: a specified scale is included in the excerpts, to be played as written.

The following general areas of musicianship will give you an indication of what the auditioning committee will be listening for:

accurate pitches, rhythm, and tempo
secure intonation
an appropriate style of performance for the music being played
good tone quality
a wide range of dynamics
clear, understandable phrasing

You will be notified by email about the auditioning committee's decision. On all questions regarding a student's application and audition, the GVYO follows the policy of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada Association in dealing directly with the student. Unless unusual circumstances exist, enquiries by parents, guardians or teachers are not encouraged if the student is able to act on their own behalf. All enquiries made directly by the students will be dealt with openly and in a straight-forward manner.

Audition Fees for First-time Applicants: $20.00
Payment accepted by e-transfer prior to your audition, or by cash or cheque in-person at your audition.

2025 Audition Materials

Audition & Membership Information:

audition_information.pdf
File Size:	891 kb
File Type:	pdf