Each audition will begin with scales. Scales are an important component of a musician’s development and preparing them teaches us intonation, dexterity, ear-training, and music theory. Scale practice helps with sight-reading, too! For this year’s taped audition, you’ll choose and play any three scales from the ones listed bellow according to your level and the orchestra you are auditing for.
Below are the string requirements for each instrument/orchestra group. Be sure to prepare all of the solos required for your instrument/desired orchestra.
Youth Orchestra Strings
Memorization not required
Philharmonia Orchestra Strings
Memorization not required
- Philharmonia Violin Scales
- Philharmonia Viola Scales
- Philharmonia Cello Scales
- Philharmonia Bass Scales
Concert Orchestra Strings
Memorization not required
- Concert Orchestra Violin Scales
- Concert Orchestra Viola Scales
- Concert Orchestra Cello Scales
- Concert Orchestra Bass Scales
Sinfonietta Strings
Memorization not required
Opus One Strings
Memorization not required
Youth and Philharmonia Orchestra Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion
Memorized Scales (ascending and descending): All 2-octave major scales through three sharps and three flats; 2-octave melodic minor scales through two sharps and two flats; chromatic scale of two or more octaves to demonstrate your performing range. Note: Scales should be performed in eighth notes at a minimum tempo of quarter note=60, but not faster than you can play cleanly and evenly.
Concert Orchestra Woodwinds, Brass, Percussion
Memorized Scales (ascending and descending): All 1-octave major scales through three sharps and three flats (2-octaves on the advice of your teacher); chromatic scale of at least one octave to demonstrate your performing range. Note: Scales should be performed in eighth notes at a minimum tempo of quarter note=60, but not faster than you can play cleanly and evenly.
NOTE for Woodwinds, Brass & Percussion: If you are not sure which orchestra to apply for, the safest thing is to simply prepare the Philharmonia/Youth materials. Concert Orchestra requirements are encompassed within the Philharmonia/Youth audition materials, so in preparing the extra material, you will in effect be auditioning for all three orchestras. If you audition on the Philharmonia and Youth materials and are not accepted into one of those ensembles, you will still be considered for Concert Orchestra.
NOTE for percussionists: Depending on instrument availability, you may perform these scales on xylophone, marimba, orchestra bells, or piano.
