Orchestra Audition Preparation for String Players
How young violinists, violists, cellists, and bassists prepare excerpts, scales, and sight-reading for AYSP, Santa Fe Youth Symphony, and All-State.
Deconstructing Orchestral Excerpts
Orchestral excerpts test rhythm, bow distribution, and articulation under tempo. Listen to professional orchestra recordings while following the full score.
Practice excerpts with a metronome at half tempo to secure clean shifting and intonation before bringing up to audition tempo.
Mastering Scale and Arpeggio Requirements
Audition rubrics reward seamless shifting and pure intonation across two- and three-octave scales.
Vary your bowing patterns (slurred, staccato, martelé) during scale practice to ensure bow arm flexibility.
Mock Audition Behind a Screen
Many major youth orchestra auditions utilize blind auditions behind a screen. Practice performing without speaking or making identifying noises.