You must prepare one excerpt from group A and one from group B, in addition to a 3-5 min piece of your choice for your video audition.
Alternatively, you are welcome to substitute either one or both excerpts with any listed on the Trinity College grade 7 or 8 exam syllabus for your instrument(s).*
The following excerpts are for both HCYO and HSSO auditions:
- Percussion - we will not require percussionists to prepare excerpts, but instead just a piece of their choice, and, if possible, showcasing a range across different percussion instruments.
- Harp - please prepare a piece of your choice (3-5 minutes, accompanied or unaccompanied). Harp applicants are also welcome to submit any orchestral excerpts they are working on, in addition to their chosen piece, should they wish.
- Saxophones, Guitar (including Bass), Piano, Organ, and Synth - there are no extracts to prepare, but please submit two short contrasting pieces of your choice. We are looking for rhythm section, saxophone, keys, and organ players to apply to HSSO for the 2024/25 academic year as part of the 2025 Hertfordshire Schools' Gala at the Royal Albert Hall, but there will also be other opportunities in the orchestra across the year
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Orchestral excerpts are an important part of the audition, and you are encouraged to prepare them thoroughly with your teacher. You may want to do some research on the pieces and listen to some recordings.
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*Please note that if choosing to submit an audition using an excerpt from the Trinity syllabus must ensure you provide a scanned copy of the chosen excerpt to accompany your submission.
What if I already play in HSSO or HCYO and want to continue as I am?
If you already play in either HSSO or HCYO and want to continue, then you do not need to send in an audition tape. However, it’s important that you still complete the application form and attend the trial day.
What if I already play in HSSO but think that I’m ready to move up to HCYO, or to have the chance to play in a principal position?
Please indicate this in your application form. We will require an audition tape as this would be a new ensemble for you, and it is important that you attend the trial day.
Can I audition for both?
Yes, you can indicate that you would be happy to be considered for either ensemble, but if you are successful then you’ll be offered a place in one or the other of the orchestras.
We may also invite you to take part in trial sessions for both HSSO and HCYO following your application/audition. This will be communicated to you by Friday 6 September.
What if I can’t attend the trial day?
The trial day is an important part of the process for ensuring everybody is in the right position in the orchestra for their development. We would encourage everybody to make the best efforts to be available, otherwise it may impact the seating position for the year. Reach out to the team as early as possible if you have any concerns.
If you’re an existing member of the orchestra but can’t attend the trial day, you will also need to submit a video audition by Friday 30 August.