How to Join the Youth Orchestra
Who is Eligible to Audition?
|
Advanced elementary, middle school and high school students who play string, wind, or percussion instruments may audition to join the Youth Orchestra for fall semester 2025. We recommend that students play at an advanced NYSSMA Level 3 or higher. Students should prepare your choice of a solo selection (without accompaniment) and a scale.
Students should be capable of playing in keys with up to three flats and three sharps. Beginning shifting is a must. (Those not familiar with NYSSMA ratings should e-mail [email protected] for information.) FAQs I want to join but am not available on the audition dates. Can I still join? Yes, students who are not available for the in-person audition dates can still apply by submitting the application form, $15 fee, and a video recording by the application deadline. What should I include in my audition video? Your audition video should include a 2-minute solo selection and 1 scale of your choice from the requirements listed above. Videos should be submitted via email to [email protected]. How long will the season last? The season lasts from September to mid-June, and includes weekly Sunday afternoon rehearsals in Horseheads, NY. There are two public concerts, in the fall and spring. Additionally, the youth orchestra will perform a special side-by-side performance at the OSFL concert in March. Can I join in the middle of the season? Yes! With approval from the conductors or the OSFL office, students may apply and begin at any time during the year. Contact the office for mid-season auditions. For more information, contact the OSFL Office at (607) 936-2873 or [email protected] |
|
2025-26 Application
Download the 2025-26 application form.
Get your application in early for the best experience. Rehearsals are Sundays at 4:30-6:30 PM in Horseheads beginning September 14, 2025
Application deadlines and audition dates are
Please send the completed application with a $15 check for the application fee made out to OSFL to:
OSFL
PO Box 15
Corning, NY 14830
If you prefer, you may email a completed application to [email protected] and then pay the audition fee with the button below.
Your confirmation will be emailed to you from [email protected]. Add this email address to your contacts to be sure it doesn't get filtered into your spam folder.
Download the 2025-26 application form.
Get your application in early for the best experience. Rehearsals are Sundays at 4:30-6:30 PM in Horseheads beginning September 14, 2025
Application deadlines and audition dates are
- Apply by June 11 to audition on Thursday, June 12 6:30-8:30 PM
- Apply by September 10 to audition on Saturday, September 13, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
Please send the completed application with a $15 check for the application fee made out to OSFL to:
OSFL
PO Box 15
Corning, NY 14830
If you prefer, you may email a completed application to [email protected] and then pay the audition fee with the button below.
Your confirmation will be emailed to you from [email protected]. Add this email address to your contacts to be sure it doesn't get filtered into your spam folder.
Pay Application Fee
Tuition Fees
Tuition for 25-26 full year is just $240, considerably lower than other youth orchestra programs in New York state. Need-based tuition assistance is available. Please inquire at the OSFL office.
After you have applied and auditioned successfully, you will be invited to join the Youth Orchestra. Your tuition is due at that time but no later than the second rehearsal.
Checks should be made payable to "OSFL" and mailed to the office:
OSFL • P.O. Box 15 • Corning, New York • 14830
Please do not give checks to the conductors.
To pay by credit card, click the button below or call the office at 607-936-2873.
After you have applied and auditioned successfully, you will be invited to join the Youth Orchestra. Your tuition is due at that time but no later than the second rehearsal.
Checks should be made payable to "OSFL" and mailed to the office:
OSFL • P.O. Box 15 • Corning, New York • 14830
Please do not give checks to the conductors.
To pay by credit card, click the button below or call the office at 607-936-2873.
Please contact the OSFL office if you have difficulty with these fees: [email protected]. We want to make certain that financial concerns do not prevent any young musician from participating. Tuition assistance and payment plans are available for those facing financial challenges.
Late Applicants
We understand that life can be busy. Students who are not able to apply by the deadline may still apply on a rolling basis. Prepare your application and audition now to participate in the next concert. Please check with the office and let us know you are interested in applying.
