The Georgia All-State Orchestra is an exciting opportunity for hard working and committed orchestra students across the state of Georgia. To audition, students must be enrolled in their school’s orchestra program and are encouraged to take private lessons or receive approval from their orchestra director. The audition process is rigorous but offers valuable growth as students refine their instrumental skills and musicianship. Students who earn seats in the Georgia All-State Orchestra join other top musicians from across the state for a three-day event in Athens, Georgia, where they will rehearse under the guidance of a distinguished orchestra conductor and perform a concert at the Classic Center. This experience is incredibly rewarding, offering students the chance to grow as musicians and connect with their peers in a collaborative and inspiring environment.
The audition process includes performing assigned major, minor, and chromatic scales from memory, playing both lyrical and technical etudes specified by grade level, and completing a sight-reading exercise to demonstrate their ability to quickly interpret new music. Judges evaluate students based on their tone, pitch accuracy, technique, and overall musicality. The audition is competitive, with judges seeking those who excel in their performance and technique. If a students passes the final round of auditions they earn the honor of being part of the Georgia All-State Orchestra.
Middle schoolers who audition are automatically invited to join the Honors Orchestra, whether or not they make it to the Georgia All-State Orchestra.
Please note: This is not a casual or exploratory audition. Students who do not commit to thorough preparation risk not only their own disappointment but also the valuable time of the adjudicators. Families should carefully consider readiness and practice habits before committing. Students interested in auditioning should speak directly with Mrs. Rosas for guidance and approval.
Take private lessons or are seeking regular one-on-one guidance
Consistently practice beyond class assignments (daily, focused practice)
Are self-motivated and thrive on challenging goals
Have strong fundamentals in scales, tone, technique, and sight-reading
Show readiness to perform confidently under pressure
Only practice occasionally or rely mostly on class time
Struggle with playing scales fluently from memory
Are not currently working with a private instructor or seeking structured outside support
Are exploring music more casually and not yet ready for advanced auditions
If you’re unsure, please reach out. I’m happy to help families and students determine whether this opportunity is a good fit for their current stage of growth.
HOW DO I BEGIN THE AUDITION PROCESS?
Notify Ms. Daniel via email that you would like to audition so she can register you through GMEA. Enrollment in AIS Orchestra Program is required to audition and participate per Georgia Music Educator's Association guidelines.
Download and print the audition materials. They are available here for ALL levels.
It is recommended that you practice a bit each day, and work with your private instructor/orchestra director to make sure you are learning the music to the best of your ability.
Pay the registration fee. The fee to audition is $25.00, checks can be made out to AIS Music with “GMEA All-State, Student Name” in the memo line or follow the payment link below.
Note and plan the audition dates. If you cannot make an audition then you are ineligible to qualify for the All-State Orchestra. Students and families are responsible for their own transportation and supervision to and from auditions.
AIS REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS FRIDAY, AUGUST 29, 2025.
REGISTRATION LINKS ARE PROVIDED BELOW.
Audition Dates:
Audition #1 - October 25th, 2025
@ River Trail Middle School (10795 Rogers Cir. Johns Creek, GA)
Specific Audition Time TBD
Audition #2 - January 10th, 2026
@ Riverwood International Charter School
Specific Audition Time TBD
Acceptance - February 10th, 2026
All State Orchestra
Event Location: The Classic Center, Athens, Georgia
Date: February 27 - March 1, 2025
Students who plan to audition ARE REQUIRED to ATTEND Audition #1, Audition #2 (if you pass Audition #1), and, if you pass the second audition, the entire event March 5-7, 2026.
Atlanta International School does not provide transportation, chaperoning, meals, or housing for any portion of the All-State process.
These expenses are the responsibility of each participant's family.
Performances from previous year's All State Orchestra event - Middle School Orchestra
Performances from previous year's All State Orchestra event - 9th & 10th Orchestra
Performances from previous year's All State Orchestra event - 11th & 12th Orchestra