To audition for NYS, a student must be enrolled in a musical instruction program within the past year, e.g. a school band or orchestra or a private lesson setting. NYS does not "teach" how to play an instrument and is not meant to take the place of formal lessons. Though certain gaps may occur while the student is with NYS, it is expected that lessons and mastery of their instrument will continue. The audition process is a brief interview with the Music Director that should be preceded by a recommendation or reference from the child's current instrumental teacher. In addition, the child will be asked to demonstrate:

* proficiency playing scales and rhythms
* technical skills such as vibrato, shifting, tongueing, trills, rudiments, etc.(depending on the instrument and level)
* excerpt(s) from solo repertoire demonstrating the above
* sightreading

NYS does not assign permanent seating. Instead, students are rotated within their section and play all parts.
To schedule an audition please fill out an Application