Auditions
Become a member of the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras (ISYO)! Interested musicians who wish to join the Youth Orchestras may use the links below to review the audition materials for their instrument and the ensemble descriptions to determine which group may be the best fit for current skill level.
*Please note: Auditions are for musicians who will be new to ISYO in 2024-2025 or are current ISYO musicians who would like to audition to move up to a higher ensemble in the 2024-2025 season.
Spring auditions for the 2024-2025 season of ISYO will take place at The Grant Conservatory of Music and Dance in Springfield on the following dates:
Saturday, May 4, 2024 - 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Sunday, May 5, 2024 - 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 - 5:30-8:00 pm
ISYO Spring 2024 Auditions Sign-Up: ISYO May 2024 Auditions
Please contact Youth Orchestras and Education Programs Manager Jackie Mitra at jmitra@ilsymphony.org for questions regarding auditions or if you miss our scheduled auditions and would like to schedule an individual audition at any time during the season.
Symphony Orchestra
The ISYO Symphony Orchestra (SO) is a full orchestra composed of strings, winds, percussion, piano, and harp. Members will perform a diverse cross-section of orchestral repertoire. SO members are encouraged to take private lessons and are expected to spend time practicing their instrument daily. Ensemble skills and advanced techniques will be a priority of this ensemble and encourage artistic expression through various performance opportunities.
ISYO Symphony Orchestra Audition Packets
SO: Strings & Keyboard Audition Packet SO: Woodwinds Audition Packet SO: Brass & Percussion Audition Packet
Concert Orchestra
The ISYO Concert Orchestra (CO) is presently a string orchestra but aims to develop into a second full orchestra over the upcoming seasons. String students should have mastered all the skills presented in the Sound Innovations for String Orchestra: Book 2 or Essential Elements for Strings: Book 2. CO members are encouraged to take private lessons and are expected to spend time practicing their instrument daily. New ensemble and technical skills will be developed through a method book review and high-quality repertoire.
ISYO Concert Orchestra Audition Packets
Preparatory Orchestra
The ISYO Preparatory Orchestra (PO) is a string orchestra for musicians who have mastered all the skills presented in Sound Innovations for String Orchestra: Book 1 or Essential Elements for Strings: Book 1. PO members are encouraged to take private lessons and are expected to spend time practicing their instruments daily. Ensemble skills will be developed, in addition to proper string technique, through a level 2 method book and high-quality repertoire.