Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras

2024-25 Audition Excerpts and APplication

The BSYO is comprised of three ensembles tailored to specific age groups and skill levels, offering each student individualized attention and a supportive, inclusive, collaborative performance environment. Ensembles include:

Pre-professional, full orchestra for students grades 9-12 (*exceptional younger musicians will be considered at the discretion of the Artistic Director and with the endorsement of the student’s private teacher)
Performs standard orchestral repertoire as well as music by unrepresented and living composers

The YO is the most advanced orchestra of BSYO. It provides the most talented and dedicated students the opportunity to perform symphonic masterworks as well as exciting new repertoire by living composers. In addition to the regular concert season, students may participate in the annual concerto competition and regular chamber music opportunities. The YO receives additional coaching from musicians of the BSO, as well as occasional guest conductors. Rehearsals are on Sundays and membership is by audition.

The Youth Orchestra is conducted by Dr. Christopher Cicconi, Director of Bands and Orchestras at Towson University.

Full orchestra for students grades 7-10 (*exceptional younger musicians will be considered at the discretion of the Artistic Director and with the endorsement of the student’s private teacher)
Performs both classic and contemporary works, in the original versions as well as carefully selected arrangements
Led by James Woomert

The Concerto Orchestra (CO) is a full orchestra designed for students grades 7-10 and exceptional younger musicians). The CO performs both classic and contemporary works and acts as a full orchestral training ground for students. Students in CO also may participate in chamber music, and receive coaching by musicians of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. The Concert Orchestra is conducted by James Woomert, Director of Orchestras at Marriotts Ridge High School.

String orchestra for students through grade 7
Emphasis on building strong musicianship, technique, and ensemble skills
Led by Wesley Thompson

The SO is BSYO’s ensemble for developing talented string players. With repertoire selected to challenge and inspire students, the SO is ideal for building strong musicianship and technique that is the foundation for orchestral playing. The SO is a dynamic ensemble conducted by Wesley Thompson and receives additional support and coaching from area professionals. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the chamber music program and the annual SO concerto competition. Rehearsals are on Sundays and membership is by audition.

Alumni of the Greater Baltimore Youth Orchestras and Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras:

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Hear about upcoming BSYO performances, alumni reunions and special alumni/BSYO nights at the Baltimore Symphony!

Auditions

Audition Process

Auditions for the 24-25 BSYO season will be conducted by video submission only. BSYO will not be holding live auditions.

- Excerpts will be available on March 15
- Video Audition materials must be submitted before 11:59 pm on Friday May 31

Results will be announced mid-June

Instructions on how to submit your video can be found HERE
Current and students new to the program should complete the audition application

Apply Here

BSYO Audition Requirements

Acceptance into BSYO is by audition. Auditions for all three orchestras will include a solo piece and excepts TBA

Percussion Requirements*

Mallet solo
Snare solo
Required orchestral excerpts, provided by BSYO
Please record in the printed order

*If you have an extenuating circumstance (e.g. you do not have access to your instrument or equipment to make a video), please email ahyde@bsomusic.org

BSYO Fees
Audition fee - $50 if you are new to the BSYO program.
(if any of the audition fees are a hardship, please contact ahyde@bsomusic.org for financial assistance)

Yearly Tuition:
String Orchestra - $600
Concert Orchestra (intermediate) - $900
Youth Orchestra (advanced) - $950
Music Printing/Folder Fee - $15

Financial Assistance is available for students who qualify based on need.

Additionally, the Marin Alsop Fellowship, made possible by the Baltimore Symphony Associates, will support young musicians from under-resourced communities in their musical studies by providing full scholarship BSYO tuition and a cash award for supporting expenses such as instrument lessons, rentals, music, and other musical needs. The intention is to support the participation of students of color (BIPOC) from under-resourced communities in the BSYO. The fellowship will be available annually to one or more students who qualify.