2024-25 Youth Orchestra Program Placement Auditions

Hoff-Barthelson Music School invites you to audition for our prestigious Youth Orchestra Program for students in grades 2-12. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting your musical journey, there’s a place for everyone in our orchestral family!

In addition to strings, auditions are open to wind, brass, and percussion instrument players as well. We believe that diversity enriches our orchestral family, and we warmly welcome wind, brass, and percussion students to participate in the auditions. We are excited to explore possibilities and find the perfect fit for them within our orchestras (Symphonette, Chamber Orchestra, or Festival Orchestra) or other potential ensembles that include winds, brass, and percussion.

Placement auditions will take place on the following dates:

Sunday, May 5: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Tuesday, May 7: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Thursday, May 9: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Friday, May 10: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Registration deadline: Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

For audition requirements and to register, click here.

View flyer here.

Experience the thrill of orchestral music with our dynamic program tailored for young musicians. From budding beginners to seasoned high school virtuosos, we offer a comprehensive journey through the world of orchestral performance.

Our unique three-tiered orchestral pyramid sets us apart as the premier community music school in Westchester. Starting with our Young People’s Symphonette, designed for string players in grades 2-5, students embark on a path of musical discovery. Led by the esteemed conductor Robert Schwartz, this beginning string orchestra lays the foundation for technical proficiency and ensemble playing.

Student Orchestra with Male Conductor

As students progress, they advance to our Chamber Orchestra, an intermediate ensemble tailored for string players in grades 6-10. Here, under the guidance of Maestro Schwartz, musicians refine their skills and deepen their musical understanding in preparation for the ultimate challenge: our audition-only Festival Orchestra.

The Festival Orchestra, under the direction of celebrated conductor Jun Nakabayashi represents the pinnacle of achievement in our program, showcasing the highest level of technical ability and musical artistry among high school students. Through rigorous rehearsals and captivating performances, members of this prestigious ensemble experience the full spectrum of orchestral excellence.

At every level, our students not only refine their technical prowess and musical sensibilities but also foster lasting friendships and enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere. With 15 rehearsals per semester and three annual performances, our orchestral program offers an enriching and fulfilling experience for young musicians of all ages and abilities.

Join us at Hoff-Barthelson and embark on a musical journey like no other. Let the power of orchestral music inspire and elevate your passion for performance.

Learn more about our Orchestra Programs by calling us at 914-723-1169 or request a welcome visit.