We are now accepting applications for auditions in the autumn term. Use the 'Apply' link above to apply.
APPLICATION DEADLINE - Thursday 11th January
NEXT ROUND OF AUDITIONS - Sunday 21st January
We welcome all young musicians who are committed, who strive to share great music, and who are under 21 years of age on 31st August 2023. A minimum of grade 6 or equivalent standard is recommended for applicants although strong applications at grade 5 level will be considered. CSYO delivers some of the highest levels of orchestral performance amongst youth orchestras in the country. If you want to be involved click on the link above to apply!
Auditions
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Your audition should last about 15 minutes.
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You are invited to play a piece of your own choice, demonstrating your current technical and musical standard. It should not last more than 5 minutes. Two short excerpts in contrasting styles will be acceptable.
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A piece of music will be emailed out to you approximately 7 to 14 days before the audition for you to prepare.
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You will be asked to sight-read a short passage.
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Part of the audition will be an informal interview by the panel.
The auditions can be competitive. We sometimes find ourselves auditioning musicians, all of whom would be technically and musically suitable, but to whom we are unable to offer a place as places are limited.
Fees
Fees for CSYO vary depending on whether the Summer tour is UK based or abroad. When travelling in the UK, the annual fee is usually around £1000. When travelling abroad, full-year membership costs around £1300. These figures are for guidance only. We have bursaries available and no student should be put off applying on the grounds of cost.
Bursaries
The Friends of CSYO provide a general subsidy to all members for courses, and provide reduced rates for post-18 students and additional members of the same family. The Friends of CSYO, through their own funds and through grants from other charitable bodies, are also able to offer additional help to those parents/students who are unable to meet the cost of courses. More information can be found at the following link: Bursaries
Our bursary fund is kindly supported by the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation
Conditions
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No application can be accepted without an instrumental teacher's recommendation and, in the case of those under 18, a parental endorsement.
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Students who are still at school will be expected to attend orchestras that perform at a high technical level on a weekly basis, and sustain this commitment even when a member of CSYO.
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A commitment to attend all three courses throughout each season will be required from those accepted.
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Fees for courses are payable in advance and may be paid in installments. The Friends of CSYO subsidise all orchestral members on courses, with extra financial help for students of 18+ living away from home and for siblings, however in cases of financial hardship; bursaries to help with these costs can be awarded.
