2026-2027 Auditions

Ensembles for All Levels | Rehearsals on Sundays at Austin High School

The Austin Youth Orchestra offers a dynamic range of ensembles designed to support developing musicians from beginner to advanced levels. All rehearsals are held on Sundays at Austin High School, providing a consistent and collaborative learning environment.

Symphony Orchestra

Time: 5:00–7:30 PM
Premier full orchestra for advanced high school musicians
Tuition: $650/year

Philharmonic Orchestra

Time: 5:00–7:30 PM
Comprehensive orchestral experience for intermediate to advanced players
Tuition: $650/year

Sinfonietta

Time: 5:00–6:30 PM
Designed for developing middle school musicians
Tuition: $500/year

Canzonetta & Serenata

Time: 5:00–6:00 PM
Entry-level string ensembles for younger and beginner players
Tuition: $400/year

2026–2027 Audition Process

FALL 2026 Audition Details Below

Audition Materials for next year will be announced April 1st, 2026. 

Audition Videos will be due by July 1st, 2026.
You may submit your audition recording between May 15th and July 1st, following the posted guidelines and repertoire requirements.

If you are interested in auditioning for AYO for next year, please fill out the 2026-2027 Interest Form and we will email you the audition materials when they become available. 

Questions? Email us at education@austinyouthorchestra.org

Important Guidance for Students and Families

AYO’s audition materials were updated this year to better align with the skills needed in each orchestra level. Some of the new excerpts—particularly for Philharmonic and Symphony—are intentionally more advanced than in previous seasons.

Because of this, we strongly recommend that students preparing auditions for our top two ensembles work closely with a private teacher or school orchestra/band director to ensure appropriate preparation and musical readiness.

For Philharmonic and Symphony applicants, we also highly encourage students to get approval from their private teacher or director before submitting their final audition video. This step helps students present their best work and prevents them from unknowingly submitting a recording that does not reflect their true potential.

As an educational organization, we want every student to feel supported, confident, and set up for success. Thoughtful preparation—and guidance from a trusted teacher—can make a meaningful difference in both placement and personal growth. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. 

Questions? Please reach out education@austinyouthorchestra.org

Rubric-Based Evaluation
All auditions are evaluated using a standardized rubric created by AYO conductors and educators. This process ensures consistency, transparency, and a clear pathway for growth. Rubrics reflect AYO’s commitment to rewarding careful preparation, strong fundamental technique, and a genuine investment in ensemble training.

By sharing our criteria publicly, we aim to equip both students and teachers with a clear understanding of what AYO values: musicality, technique, preparation, and readiness for the responsibilities of an orchestra placement.

Whether your students are seasoned performers or just discovering their orchestral voice, this is their moment to grow, perform, and belong.

Join the music. Join the movement. Join AYO.