I am interested in joining BYSO. How do I audition?

What should I bring to the audition?

What if I am nervous at the audition and make mistakes?

What are my chances of getting accepted?

Does it cost anything?

What about rehearsals?

How about performances?

What will my school music teacher think about my joining BYSO?

Where can I get more information?

Click on any question to find the answer or scroll down the page to see the complete list.

I am interested in joining BYSO. How do I audition ?

Auditions are held in September and January. Search our Calendar for audition dates and then request an audition time online. Be sure to check out our audition standards prior to your appointment.
When your audition is confirmed, you will receive an email from us with details of the location.

What should I bring to the audition?

Your instrument and music, of course! Also the $25 audition fee and copies of the registration forms (if you haven't already submitted them online). And a smile - we try and make auditions feel like fun too!

What if I am nervous at the audition and make mistakes?

Don't worry! The auditioners will be able to determine your ability level even if you make mistakes. They are experienced teachers and conductors.

What are my chances of getting accepted?

Nearly all students who audition are offered places in one of the four BYSO orchestras. You will be placed in the orchestra that best matches your ability.
If you disagree with your placement, you may re-audition with the consent of the conductor with whom you were originally placed, AND an additional audition fee will be required.

Does it cost anything?

The fee for an audition is $25 (this in non-refundable). When you are accepted into a BYSO division, tuition fees will be payable for participation in all rehearsals, retreats and concerts. Tickets for performances and recordings are extra costs.

Tell me about rehearsals

BYSO orchestras rehearse every Monday evening during the school year. All Rehearsals are at Sammamish High School, 140th and Main St. in Bellevue. Practices last from 1½ to 2¼ hours, depending on the orchestra. The exception is our new Debut-East Orchestra, which will rehearse on Saturday mornings at Hammond Ashley Violins in Issaquah.

How about performances?

All BYSO orchestras participate in three showcase concerts each year. See our Performances page for more detail. Your parents and friends will be thrilled to see you performing in these concerts. BYSO also performs at schools, retirement homes, shopping centers, and many other venues. As an orchestra member, you'll be required to take part in these concerts.

What will my school music teacher think about my joining BYSO?

BYSO seeks to cooperate with and enhance both school and private teacher programs. You must continue to participate in your school music programs.

Where can I get more information?

If you have any further questions, please give us a call on (425) 467-5604.