sydney youth orchestras
applications close tuesday 18 september 2018
2019 auditions
apply now at syo.com.au
Alexander Briger AO Chief Conductor Christopher Lawrence Chief Artistic Advisor Brian Buggy OAM SYO Philharmonic James Pensini Symphonic Wind Orchestra & Western Sydney Youth Orchestra Orchestral Training Manager John Ockwell Peter Seymour Orchestra
orchestral fundamentals program Brian Buggy OAM Heloise Meisel Rachel Pogson Joanne Waples Peter Corkill Kathryn Crossing Irina Andreeva
welcome
symphonic orchestral program
Welcome to 2019 Auditions with Sydney Youth Orchestras! This year marks my eighth year as a violinist as a member of SYO. Over these years, I have not only developed my skills in musicianship and playing with an ensemble, but also made many long-lasting friendships with like-minded musicians. To have opportunities to be educated by professional musicians from world-class orchestras has been such an invaluable experience for me, with the main highlight being last year’s European Tour. I have never regretted my decision to audition for SYO, and I hope that you can join us and not miss out on this great opportunity!
Jason Yip, Tutti First Violin, The Sydney Youth Orchestra
At Sydney Youth Orchestras you will learn a whole new range of skills with the excellent help of the friendly and knowledgeable conductors and tutors. You will learn to listen to other people’s playing and work as a team, so that together you can achieve a beautiful sound. Look forward to driving your parents/guardians mad with your repetitive playing of the hard sections that don’t quite sound right without the rest of the orchestra! However, once they are played within the piece at one of the many concerts you will have the opportunity of playing in, your hard work will have paid off. SYO is a wonderful environment to not only improve your playing, but also to make new, like-minded friends that you will never forget. Throughout the seven years that I’ve been in the SYO program, I have met many amazing people that have made my orchestral experiences even more special. Good luck in your auditions because we hope to see you around next year, and don’t forget to bring your pencil!
Imogen Stanford, Tutti Cello, Stage 4 Sinfonia
about sydney youth orchestras Sydney Youth Orchestras is the leading orchestral training and education provider in New South Wales, forging dynamic relationships between young musicians and Australia’s leading music educators, conductors and performers. For 45 years, SYO has been an engine room of excellence and produced some of Australia’s finest musicians, educators and lovers of classical music. In 2019, SYO will provide weekly orchestral training for musicians aged 6 – 25 years across 12 ensembles. SYO’s Orchestral Training Framework ensures that musicians progress through the orchestras, developing individual and ensemble skills under the careful guidance of artistic staff. Beyond equipping our emerging artists for careers as professional musicians, our program teaches teamwork, discipline, dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Whatever career path these talented young people follow, they are likely to become leaders in and contributors to their community.
why sydney youth orchestras? Our rigorous training pathway begins at early stage music learning and culminates at a pre-professional level. Student progression is based on technical ability, musical aptitude and maturity for ensemble playing. This provides both SYO and students with a clear set of musical goals and an objective set of assessment standards. Our program is highlyrespected and includes the modules, projects and activities which are vital to producing artistic vibrancy.
Training with SYO allows alumni to join organisations such as the Australian Youth Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australian Chamber Orchestra, as well as many Australian and International ensembles.
our ensembles and orchestras
the sydney youth orchestra
Join the syo
syo philharmonic
symphonic wind orchestra
2 years in syo philharmonic
western sydney youth orchestra
peter seymor orchestra
2 years in swo, pso or wsyo
stage 4 sinfonia
2 years in stage 3
stage 2 syo strings
2 years in stage 1
2 years in stage 4
stage 3 syo strings
2 years in stage 2
stage 1 syo strings
Two years is the recommended period of time but is assessed annually through the audition process.
orchestral training program
weekly weekly theory classes expanding musicianship skills
sectionals & tutorials with members of professional orchestras for all members
professional concert performances in Sydney’s foremost venues
weekly orchestral training by highly skilled music educators and experienced conductors
masterclasses with visiting guest musicians from interstate and abroad
touring regional NSW, interstate and international
intensive overnight & daytime music camps for all members
concert performances
exposure to the professional music industry alongside high quality orchestral and performance training.
touring SYO knows performing is an essential part of orchestral training. SYO offers all twelve ensembles diverse performance opportunities. There is a huge variety of performance events across the SYO calendar, enabling musicians to build their confidence on stage.
music camps
At the beginning of each year, all musicians from the Orchestral Fundamentals Program and the Symphonic Orchestral Program attend intensive orchestral training camps which allow the ensembles to immerse themselves in new repertoire and get to know their orchestral colleagues.
sectionals and tutorials
Musicians from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Australian Chamber Orchestra and the Opera Australia Orchestra tutor each section of the orchestra on a regular basis. This association allows members
Touring is a staple of the Symphonic Orchestral Program’s annual calendar and is pivotal to the implementation of outreach programs and community building across Regional NSW and Interstate. Touring provides SYO musicians with an opportunity to share their musical knowledge, rehearse and perform in a variety of venues and engage with a broad range of audiences.
masterclasses
SYO offers elite musicians opportunities to work with national and international soloists, conductors and educators. These opportunities allow high achieving SYO members to extend their horizons as pre-professional musicians.
orchestral fundamentals program (stage 1-4) Delivered in an engaging and focused rehearsal environment, this structured education program provides students with an opportunity to develop and hone their understanding of ensemble playing, improve their sight reading and aural awareness skills, and advance their general string technique.
stage 1
Stage One is where many young players gain their first ensemble experience and the invaluable opportunity to play music with other like-minded children. Young musicians are invited to begin thinking more musically, introducing the challenges of playing together across instrumental sections, developing rhythmic and tonal understanding, and the interpretation of various dynamic and style markings.
Expected base-level knowledge: first position playing in keys of up to 2 sharps and 1 flat. AMEB 2 minimum or equivalent. Open to string players. Rehearsals: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1000 – 1230
stage 2
Students in Stage Two are exposed to increasingly complex orchestral concepts and will refine the skills required to effectively and confidently sight read, progressively master challenging rhythms and interpret musical markings with deeper stylistic understanding.
Expected base-level knowledge: first to third position playing in keys of up to 3 sharps and 2 flats. AMEB 3 minimum or equivalent. Open to string players. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1000 – 1230
stage 3
Stage Three offers intermediate players the chance to further develop their ensemble playing while extending their technical and aural skills. Musicians will discover a range of increasingly challenging and engaging repertoire, demanding technical proficiency, superior ensemble skills and a sophisticated knowledge of style.
Expected base-level knowledge: first to fifth position in major and minor keys of 3 flats to 4 sharps. AMEB 4 minimum or equivalent. Open to string players. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1300 - 1600
stage 4
Stage Four is the springboard to the Symphonic Orchestral Program and is an exciting progression for students working their way through the Orchestral Fundamentals Program. In this stage, strings are joined for projects by wind, brass and percussion from the Symphonic Wind Orchestra. Musicians receive an invaluable opportunity to explore modest orchestral repertoire from baroque to late romantic, requiring a mature understanding of orchestral playing and confident technical skills.
Expected base-level knowledge: a very high standard in first to fifth positions and AMEB 6 minimum or equivalent. Open to string players. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1300 - 1600 It is expected that a student will spend two years developing in each Stage before progressing in the program. AMEB Grades are a guideline only and have no bearing on audition results and ensemble placement
symphonic orchestral program The Symphonic Orchestral Program is designed to hone the large ensemble skills of young musicians. Across five ensembles, this program allows musicians to play and perform core orchestral repertoire, receive high level tutelage from professional Sydney-based instrumentalists and educators, and perform to a wider variety of audiences in more diverse, exciting concert settings.
western sydney youth orchestra
Conducted by esteemed music educator James Pensini, WSYO is the newest ensemble in the Symphonic Orchestral Program, showcasing young musicians from Western Sydney and beyond. Now well established, this orchestra covers core canonical repertoire allowing musicians to strengthen their instrumental and ensemble skills.
Recommend for: Strings, Woodwind, Brass & Percussion, aged 12+, AMEB Grade 5 minimum or equivalent. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Monday, 404 Studios, Parramatta, 1730 – 2030
symphonic wind orchestra
SWO is conducted by esteemed music educator James Pensini and is an unrivalled training ground for the best young wind, brass and percussion players in Sydney.
Recommend for: Woodwind, Brass & Percussion, aged 12+, AMEB Grade 6 minimum or equivalent. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1300 - 1600
peter seymour orchestra
Under the leadership of John Ockwell, musicians in PSO will have the opportunity to learn the foundations of orchestral training and the canon of Classical period repertoire.
Recommend for: Strings, Woodwind & French Horn, aged 12+, AMEB Grade 7 minimum or equivalent. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield 1300 - 1600
syo philharmonic
Conducted by celebrated Australian musician, composer and educator Brian Buggy OAM, SYOP is a full symphony orchestra, tackling orchestral favourites with a focus on Romantic period repertoire.
Recommend for: Strings, Woodwind, Brass & Percussion, aged 14+, AMEB Grade 8 minimum or equivalent. Previous ensemble experience required. Rehearsals: Sunday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1500 - 1800
the sydney youth orchestra
The Sydney Youth Orchestra is where Sydney’s most talented young musicians - those who aspire to the highest level of orchestral performance and a future as an orchestral musician - are to be found. Repertoire is dynamic, performance opportunities varied with a high standard of instrumental skill. The Sydney Youth Orchestra is conducted by internationally acclaimed Chief Conductor, Alexander Briger AO.
Recommend for: Strings, Woodwind, Brass & Percussion: musicians aged 14 up to 25 years, suggested level AMEB AMusA minimum or equivalent. Previous orchestral experience required Rehearsals: Sunday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 1000 - 1430 This program introduces students to orchestral touring and demands a high level of commitment, dedication and ensemble experience
syo theory program Students will be educated in the principles of musicianship as it relates to the instrumental ensemble work they are undertaking in rehearsals. Some of the concepts that will be addressed include key signatures, scales, cadences, harmony, chord progressions, and aural practice. The final content will be matched to the participants’ current level of knowledge and their musical needs. Participants will be required to bring manuscript and a pencil each week.
Class times: Stages 1, Stage 2 900 - 945 Stage 3, Stage 4, PSO and SWO 1200 - 1245 Classes: Saturday, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield Minimum enrolments are required for the classes to be confirmed Enrolment in this program is available to successful 2019 applicants in December, 2018.
being a musican commitment
With limited and highly sought-after places each year, it is a significant achievement to be offered a position with SYO. Successful applicants must commit to their orchestra for the full year. This is an annual program of learning and development. Musicians are occasionally required to participate in extra rehearsals or workshops outside scheduled rehearsal times.
applicants must be
Musicians aged 24 years or younger on 31 December 2018 and regularly studying with a professional instrumental teacher.
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regional musicians
SYO is pleased to welcome young musicians who would like to be part of our program and are based in Regional NSW. A tailored rehearsal schedule, including a flexible attendance plan and discounted musician contributions are available for successful applicants who live further than 200km from the Sydney CBD. Regional participants may also elect to submit a video audition. This selection can be made on the SYO audition form.
audition process 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
decide
6.
Decide which orchestra or ensemble is best for you.
apply
Complete your audition application before Tuesday 18 September. Audition application forms are available on syo.com.au.
7.
download
8.
practice
9.
Download your audition excerpts and technical requirements. These are available for you to download after you submit your audition application. Take your excerpts to your private music teacher.
prepare
schedule
Receive your audition time. You will receive an email by Friday 28 September with information on the date, time and location of your audition.
audition
Attend your audition.
results
Receive your results. Results will be sent via email to the primary email you nominated in your application by Friday 14 December.
enrol
Accept or decline your offer. You have until Sunday 13 January to accept your offer.
Attend the Audition Information Session on 22 September 2018.
key dates APPLICATIONS OPEN
APPLICATIONS CLOSE
Wednesday 1 August
Tuesday 18 September
RESULTS RELEASED
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ENDS
Friday 14 December
Monday 31 December
AUDITION INFORMATION SESSION
AUDITION PERIOD
Saturday 22 September
Saturday 13 October – Sunday 4 November
ENROLMENTS CLOSE
REHEARSALS COMMENCE
Sunday 13 January 2019
Saturday 2 February 2019
your audition audition requirements
Every new applicant and existing SYO musician must audition. You are required to perform a prepared piece, orchestral excerpts, and sight reading. Full details will be sent to you upon receipt of your application. Auditions will be approximately 5-7 minutes in length. A non-refundable audition fee is payable with your application.
audition process
SYO is a merit-based organisation and by instituting a process of annual auditions our standard remains high. Our audition panels comprise SYO conductors, external instrumental experts and professional orchestral musicians. Due to the complex arrangement of ranking and assessing each student, SYO cannot enter into discussion about the placement of individual musicians.
audition information session saturday 22 september 2018 Held at Santa Sabina College in Strathfield, current SYO and prospective musicians are invited to attend an information session about audition requirements and tips, so you can feel confident and well prepared on the day.
benefits university bonus points
ticket offers
These NSW based tertiary institutions are listed below:
SYO offers discounted tickets to our members to encourage them to attend performances of their peers. An SYO Musician ticket costs $15 per performance.
In recognition of a student’s participation in SYO programs, some university and tertiary institutions offer bonus points or accreditation.
The University of Sydney The University of New South Wales University of Wollongong University of Newcastle Australian Catholic University More information available at syo.com.au
idagio
IDAGIO is a platform where musicians share their recordings and connect with a growing global classical community. As part of our partnership, all SYO musicians receive a free premium membership to IDAGIO and access to full recordings of the great orchestras of the world.
SYO Musicians are eligible for a range of ticket discounts help keep performances accessible to the next generation of musicians and music lovers.
More benefits are listed at syo.com.au.
your contribution Individual student contributions comprise only 35% of the full cost of the SYO Orchestral Training Program. The balance is funded through the generous support we receive from the NSW Government, private donors, corporate partners and self generated income from ticket sales and performance hire. For those young musicians who are selected to take a place in one of our orchestras, their cost of participation is less than $10 per hour.
audition fee new musicians 2018 syo musicians
$60 $50
annual contribution
orchestral fundamentals program $1445 symphonic orchestral program the sydney youth orchestra
$1520 $1245
These contributions include: orchestra camp (except The Sydney Youth Orchestra), a compulsory annual Association fee of $20 and all transaction fees. regional tour
$460
Regional Tour fees will be invoiced separately and are payable 6 weeks prior to the tour date. It is expected that all players accepted into SYOP, SWO, PSO & WSYO will attend a tour.
All fees are non-refundable.
optional
syo theory program
$360
SYO Theory classes are an optional addition to orchestral rehearsals.
discounts regional discount over 200km $250 over 250km $400 tertiary discount $275 sibling discount (per student) $100 early bird discount $50 if paid in full by 31 December 2018
scholarships opportunity scholarships
Awarded based on need, the SYO Opportunity Scholarships support musicians who do not have the financial means to cover their musician contributions. To apply for a scholarship please select the “Financial Assistance Required” option on your audition form. An application form will be sent to you at the start of the audition period. Scholarships and their value will be announced in your orchestra offer email.
regional scholarships
All musicians from regional NSW who lives over 200km from Sydney CBD are awarded a scholarship according to their distance from Sydney CBD, as detailed in the discounts section. Based on audition results, the most outstanding musicians will receive in addition to the regional discount a scholarship which covers the musician’s full contribution and camp fees. These scholarships are funded by Macquarie Group staff with the support of the Macquarie Group Foundation and other generous Opportunity Fund Donors. To be eligible for a scholarship please select the “Regional Participant” option on your audition form.
principal chair sponsorship
Each year SYO seeks private donors to support the section principals of The Sydney Youth Orchestra and the Concertmasters of the orchestras within the SYO Symphonic Orchestral Program. These scholarships are awarded on merit and the confirmation of a donor.
registrations open 1 October
syo summer school 2019 7–11 January
Register your interest now for Sydney Youth Orchestras’ week-long open music program. Young musicians are placed in ensembles which match their abilities and extend their skills. Come along for a unique opportunity to make friends and learn with the best.
HSC Program For students in Years 11 and 12, the SYO Summer School will include a HSC preparation stream. Boarding SYO will offer catered boarding packages for students to stay in supervised, group accommodation close to the Summer School venue.
to register visit syo.com.au
our sponsors
government partners
digital education partner
corporate music partners
international tour partners
syo state partner
event partners
western sydney youth orchestra partners
supporting partners
182 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000 T +61 2 9251 2422 E info@syo.com.au design: bettina kaiser art + design
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