updated May 14, 2025

AUDITIONS FOR 2025-26 SEASON Extended!

The Young People’s Symphony Orchestra (YPSO) invites passionate young musicians to be part of an unforgettable season of music, growth, and camaraderie. As the oldest youth orchestra in California, our mission is to guide young musicians to excellence in an orchestral setting while fostering lifelong friendships and skills.

In the 2025-26 season, YPSO musicians will perform in four subscription concerts, perform at Davies Symphony Hall as part of the Bay Area Youth Orchestra Festival (BAYOF), be a part of an immersive orchestra retreat in Carmel Valley,
and embark on an exciting summer tour in June 2026 to the Baltics!

We are still accepting auditions for all orchestra sections:


Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, String Bass
Woodwinds: Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon
Brass: Horn, Trumpet, Tuba
Percussion

  • We welcome musicians typically between the ages of 11-21. If you have any questions or special circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at auditions@ypsomusic.org

  • 1)There is no application fee.

    2)Participation requirements below:

    • Weekly Monday night rehearsals during the school season, and some select Sunday intensives

    • Participate in subscription concerts and BAYOF

    • Participate in the weekend-long Retreat in late Sept.

    • Mandatory Summer 2026 Tour

    • Attendance is important, though a limited number of absences are permitted as outlined in the Member Handbook.

  • Link to our FAQ document

We can't wait to welcome new musicians to YPSO and look forward to another incredible season! If you’re ready to take the next step, read on ahead for the application process. Contact us at auditions@ypsomusic.org with any questions!

HOW TO AUDITION

Step 1: Submit a Video Pre-Screening Audition

  • A solo or combination of pieces (up to 10 minutes) showcasing your musicality and skill.

  • Video prescreen submissions - we have rolling auditions for any open sections (see above) - please go ahead and send in your videos.

  • Pre-screening videos are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants are typically notified of results within 7-10 days of submission.

  • Videos can be previously recorded or self-made at home.

  • Videos must show hands, face, and instrument clearly at all times

  • Upload your video as an unlisted link on YouTube/Vimeo and submit it via the application form.

Step 2: In-Person Audition (by invitation)

Candidates who pass the video pre-screening will be invited to an in-person audition.

If in-person attendance is impossible, full video auditions may be considered on a case-by-case basis (e.g. student is overseas for the year).

Location: First Congregational Church Oakland, 2501 Harrison St. Oakland.

CLICK HERE —> IN-PERSON AUDITION PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS

CLICK HERE —> AUDITION EXCERPTS

Important Dates and Deadlines

Note that the earlier you apply in the season, the better your chances of gaining a seat in the orchestra

  • 📅 ONGOING – Audition Application and Video Prescreen Ongoing for any open sections (see list above) - successful candidates are invited to In person auditions in May and early June

  • 📅 June 15 – Summer Prescreen Deadline - successful candidates are invited to in person auditions in late June/early July

  • 📅 August 3 - Fall Prescreen Deadline for any remaining open positions - successful candidates are invited to in person auditions in late August

  • 📅 JUNE 1, or within 1 week after acceptance – Deadline to Complete 2025-26 Season Registration - Secure your spot by submitting the required tuition deposit.