registration & auditions

Feb 27, 2026 Deadline to register for course selection: ALL students select either Orchestra (strings) or Symphonic Band (band) regardless of whether you plan to audition for an auditioned ensemble.

Mar 25-27, 2026 Auditions for Chamber Ensemble (strings), Wind Ensemble (band). Choose ONE of these time slots on the audition form

Apr 3, 2026 Results announced 

Band students select Symphonic Band. Strings students select Orchestra. All students who wish to be considered for placement in Wind Ensemble or Chamber Ensemble are required to audition (all are welcome to be in Symphonic Band or Orchestra without an audition). 

1. Fill out the audition info form prior to your audition (you will select an audition time slot)

2. Practice your scales (orchestra and band - band, you will play 2 of the flat-side scales)

3. Prepare your solo excerpts (orchestra and band)

You will perform your scales and solo excerpts (see links above). You will be assessed on tone, intonation, rhythm, musicality, and technique. See rubric. We also are considering external factors such as instrumentation, balance, and ensemble size.

Ensemble lists will be emailed to all auditionees on or before April 3, 2026. 

The lists will then be sent to counselors so they can add the correct music class to your schedule. 

Symphonic Band - NO AUDITION REQUIRED! Just sign up!

• Grades 9-12 (9th graders may be considered with an audition)

• At least one year experience on your instrument recommended

• 5-6 yearly required events/ performances outside school hours

• Instruments: woodwinds, brass, percussion

• All band students should select this class regardless of whether you plan to audition for Wind Ensemble. We will place you in the appropriate class after auditions are over. 

Wind Ensemble - Audition Required

• Grades 10-12 (9th graders may be considered with an audition)

• Advanced level - multiple years of experience recommended

• 6-10 yearly required events/performances

• Instruments: woodwinds, brass, percussion

• Performance Tour planned in the spring of 2027

Orchestra - NO AUDITION REQUIRED! Just sign up!

• Grades 9-12

• At least one year experience on your instrument recommended

• 5-6 yearly required events/ performances outside school hours

• Instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass

• All band students should select this class regardless of whether you plan to audition for Chamber Ensemble. We will place you in the appropriate class after auditions are over. 

Chamber Ensemble - Audition Required

• Grades 10-12 (9th graders may be considered)

• Advanced level - multiple years of experience recommended

• 6-10 yearly required events/performances; travel opportunities

• Instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass

• Performance Tour planned in the spring of 2027

8th Period Classes - NO AUDITION REQUIRED! Just sign up!

• Marching Band and Color Guard (Fall semester only) - no audition required

• Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors should select Marching Band PE

• Winter Auxiliary (Spring semester only) - no audition required

Email Ricky Alegria or Jo Smith-Nilsson: jo.nilsson@mvla.net and ricky.alegria@mvla.net.