We are now scheduling and hearing auditions for the 2013-2014 season of the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
Interested musicians are asked to prepare two contrasting pieces or movements of the highest level that showcase their musical and technical abilities. BPYO auditions will also include an informal interview. Inquiries about auditions should be directed to the BPYO office, 617.470.8382 or bpyo@bostonphil.org.
To apply and receive an audition time please fill out the online audition form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AuditionBPYO. There is no fee to take the audition.
Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Frequently Asked Questions
As of May 13, 2013
How do I schedule an audition?
-You can request an audition by completing an online audition form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AuditionBPYO. You can also call the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra office at (617) 470-8382 with any questions. Spring auditions are currently underway. We will contact you after we receive your application form to schedule an audition time.
Can I send a DVD?
-We encourage in person auditions whenever possible. If you are not able to audition in person, you may send a DVD of your two contrasting audition selections to the Boston Philharmonic office at: Boston Philharmonic Orchestra / 295 Huntington Ave., Suite 210 / Boston, Massachusetts 02115. Please also fill out an online audition form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AuditionBPYO.
Can I use online videos like YouTube or Vimeo?
-We encourage in person auditions whenever possible. If you are not able to audition in person, you may send the link to your video to us at bpyo@bostonphil.org. Please call the BPYO office at (617) 470-8382 if you need assistance. Please also fill out an online audition form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AuditionBPYO.
When do I hear if I made it in?
-Results of the spring auditions will be communicated by June 15.
What questions will be asked in the audition interview?
-The motto of the BPYO is “shaping future leaders through music.” Please give some thought to how you hope to contribute to society with your music, how you would like to change the musical landscape, and what aspects of music you are most passionate about.
When do rehearsals take place?
-Saturdays, 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.
What is the rehearsal format?
-Sectional rehearsal, 2:30 to 3:30; Full rehearsal, 3:45 to 6:30.
Who will lead the sectionals and how will they be structured?
-Leading Boston musicians, some members of the Boston Symphony and some principal players of the Boston Philharmonic, will direct the sectional rehearsal. Some sectionals will be for specific instruments and some for woodwind, brass, percussion, or strings.
When is the first rehearsal?
-September 14, 2013
Where are the rehearsals held?
-Rehearsals are held at the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology in Boston's South End. There is a beautiful auditorium where the orchestra rehearses, which is modeled after Boston's Symphony Hall, as well as ample classroom space for sectional rehearsals, and plenty of space for parents and visitors to observe the rehearsals. The Franklin Institute is located very close to the Boston Ballet, Boston Center for the Arts, and Community Music Center of Boston. It's a lovely neighborhood, close to the T (Back Bay station) and with a number of parking options.
What concerts are scheduled for the 2013-2014 season?
-Three concerts are scheduled in Symphony Hall on November 15, 2013, March 7, 2014, and May 18, 2014. We also anticipate a performance at Carnegie Hall on May 23, 2014.
What repertoire is planned for next season?
-Repertoire will include Mahler, Symphony No. 5; Bartok Concerto for Orchestra, Shostakovich Symphony No. 10, Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto, and Shostakovich Cello Concerto.
What age do I have to be to play in the BPYO?
-Players must be age 21 or younger on September 15, 2013. Exceptions will be considered for older players who are in their 3rd or 4th year of undergraduate college programs. Requests for age exceptions should be made at the live audition or in writing with the DVD/video submission.
Can you estimate the proportion of pre-college and college members?
-The current membership of the BPYO is about 60% pre-college, and 40% college age.
Do high school members have a chance to fill leadership positions?
-Yes, all players will be equally considered for principal chairs. In some instruments there may be multiple principal chairs.
Does the BPYO take tours?
-BPYO is traveling to the Netherlands in June, 2013.
How does Mr. Zander guide the players in leadership skills?
-At the beginning of each rehearsal, Mr. Zander gives a weekly leadership assignment to members of BPYO. After each rehearsal players are asked to write reflections on the rehearsal and their experience in the BPYO, referred to as “white sheets.” These provide a unique ongoing dialogue between Mr. Zander and all of the players. Often players’ comments provide the impetus for significant discussions about the power of music, the role of musicians, and the mission of an orchestra like the BPYO, leading to the development of leadership capacity. From time to time Mr. Zander will also facilitate group discussions on the nature and practice of leadership. He is a highly sought-after international speaker on leadership, motivation, contribution, creative thinking and living a passion filled life. See http://www.ted.com/talks/
What is the relationship between the BPYO and the BPO?
-The BPYO is a division of the BPO not-for-profit corporation. The BPO serves as the management of the BPYO in all aspects, providing all musical, production, marketing and fiscal resources. BPYO members are invited to attend BPO performances, and are coached by members of BPO in rehearsals.