Auditions at the CMS

Range of scales, without music, 1 octave, 2 quarter notes slurred, metronome marking 60 - 92 = quarter note.  One scale will be selected and included on the excerpts link.

An unaccompanied solo of the student's choice that best demonstrates their ability. The solo does not need to be played from memory. If memorized, bring the solo music into the audition.

Excerpts will be available in early July.

• 2024-2025 String Ensemble Violin Excerpt
• 2024-2025 String Ensemble Viola Excerpt
• 2024-2025 String Ensemble Cello Excerpt

Wait Your Turn

The following list indicates the median playing level generally reached by students in String Ensemble. There are other appropriate works not listed in this guide.

Please review the attendance policy before auditioning. Students MUST be able to attend the following Dress Rehearsal and Concert Dates to audition.

How are audition times assigned?

Auditions are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Audition times are at a premium and fill up quickly.

What if I am unavailable on my assigned audition date?

Please email to let the Ensembles Representative, ginachristopher@webster.edu, know of your conflict as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate a change, but please be aware that there may not be a different available day or time.

What happens in the audition?

You should arrive 15-20 minutes early to be ready for your audition time. You will be assigned a warm-up room when you arrive for your audition. When it is time, the Ensembles Representative will lead you from your warm-up room to the audition room. You should be dressed in a way to present a serious and respectful first impression. When you enter the audition room, make sure you smile and say hello to the judges and introduce yourself. You will play your scale first, solo second, and excerpts last. The judges will also ask you to sight-read a couple of measures of music.

What scales and excerpts will I play?

A link to the scales and excerpts the judges have chosen for this year’s audition will be emailed to you.

Will I be asked to sight read?

Yes, the conductors will ask you to sight read a short piece of music in the audition.

What if I am auditioning for both SE and SO?

If you are auditioning for both orchestras you need to prepare both SO and SE’s listed scales and excerpts. You will only need to prepare one solo.

Will I play everything I have been asked to prepare?

The judges may stop you at any point, ask you to play something at a faster/slower tempo, in a different style, or they may only have you play a portion of a piece. This is not a commentary on your playing; it is mostly to keep the auditions running on time.

May I talk to the judges?

Sure, but please be aware that these auditions are only five minutes long. There are a lot of students auditioning and the judges are trying to stay on time so they are not going to be very talkative. Parents may not talk to the judges. The Ensembles Coordinator will be happy to answer any questions.

How will I find out about audition results?

All audition results will be sent out by email the week following the audition. No results will be given over the phone. Please do not call as it inhibits our ability to get notifications out in a timely fashion. Please remember that a large number of students are auditioning this year and that students should expect admissions to be competitive. Previous admission does not guarantee current admission.

• When you join an orchestra program, you recognize that attendance is vital to the group. Being present, prepared and attentive is the responsibility of every musician. When you miss rehearsal, you are missed not only by the conductor, but by the entire group.
• Please plan on arriving for rehearsal at the time requested by the conductor. This will allow for unpacking your instrument, tuning and a quick hello to your stand partner. Be focused and ready when the conductor begins.
• CMS orchestras rehearse once a week, for an entire school year. Orchestra members must make a commitment to attend rehearsals every week. Please carefully consider your student and family schedule to determine whether a student is able to commit to the rehearsal and concert schedule.
• If a student must miss rehearsal, arrive late or leave early, the Ensembles Representative must be notified as soon as possible by email. For a last-minute absence, please call the Ensembles Representative at 314-246-4450 or the main phone line at 314-968-5939.
• If a student can only attend part of a rehearsal, that is still preferable to missing the entire rehearsal. If a student misses a rehearsal, it is the student’s responsibility to contact another ensemble member to get rehearsal notes and practice assignments.
• Rehearsal habits make an impression on conductors, and that impression can influence future decisions about leadership and participation.
• Action plan for absences
  • Three (3) absences in one orchestral cycle — conference with the parent, Ensembles Representative and the conductor (when available).
  • Four (4) absences in one orchestral cycle — the Ensembles Representative will send a reminder email that the student needs to attend all further rehearsals.
  • Five (5) absences in one orchestral cycle — further student participation is solely at the discretion of the conductor.

One scale will be selected and included on the excerpts link.

Violin/viola/cello: range of scales, without music, 2 octaves, 4 sixteenth notes per bow, metronome at 60 - 92 = quarter note
Double basses: range of scales, without music, 2 octaves, 2 eighth notes per bow, metronome at 60 - 92 = quarter note

An unaccompanied solo of the student's choice that best demonstrates their ability. The solo does not need to be played from memory. If memorized, bring the solo music into the audition.

Excerpts will be available in early July.

• 2024-2025 String Orchestra Violin Excerpt
• 2024-2025 String Orchestra Viola Excerpt
• 2024-2025 String Orchestra Cello Excerpt
• 2024-2025 String Orchestra Double Bass Excerpt

 

The following list indicates the median playing level generally reached by students in String Orchestra. There are other appropriate works not listed in this guide.

Please review the attendance policy before auditioning. Students MUST be able to attend the following Dress Rehearsal and Concert Dates to audition.

How are audition times assigned?

Auditions are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Audition times are at a premium and fill up quickly.

What if I am unavailable on my assigned audition date?

Please email to let the Ensembles Representative, ginachristopher@webster.edu, know of your conflict as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate a change, but please be aware that there may not be a different available day or time.

What happens in the audition?

You should arrive 15-20 minutes early to be ready for your audition time. You will be assigned a warm-up room when you arrive for your audition. When it is time, the Ensembles Representative will lead you from your warm-up room to the audition room. You should be dressed in a way to present a serious and respectful first impression. When you enter the audition room, make sure you smile and say hello to the judges and introduce yourself. You will play your scale first, solo second, and excerpts last. The judges will also ask you to sight-read a couple of measures of music.

What scales and excerpts will I play?

A link to the scales and excerpts the judges have chosen for this year’s audition will be emailed to you.

Will I be asked to sight read?

Yes, the conductors will ask you to sight read a short piece of music in the audition.

What if I am auditioning for both SE and SO?

If you are auditioning for both orchestras you need to prepare both SO and SE’s listed scales and excerpts. You will only need to prepare one solo.

Will I play everything I have been asked to prepare?

The judges may stop you at any point, ask you to play something at a faster/slower tempo, in a different style, or they may only have you play a portion of a piece. This is not a commentary on your playing; it is mostly to keep the auditions running on time.

May I talk to the judges?

Sure, but please be aware that these auditions are only five minutes long. There are a lot of students auditioning and the judges are trying to stay on time so they are not going to be very talkative. Parents may not talk to the judges. The Ensembles Coordinator will be happy to answer any questions.

How will I find out about audition results?

All audition results will be sent out by email the week following the audition. No results will be given over the phone. Please do not call as it inhibits our ability to get notifications out in a timely fashion. Please remember that a large number of students are auditioning this year and that students should expect admissions to be competitive. Previous admission does not guarantee current admission.

• When you join an orchestra program, you recognize that attendance is vital to the group. Being present, prepared and attentive is the responsibility of every musician. When you miss rehearsal, you are missed not only by the conductor, but by the entire group.
• Please plan on arriving for rehearsal at the time requested by the conductor. This will allow for unpacking your instrument, tuning and a quick hello to your stand partner. Be focused and ready when the conductor begins.
• CMS orchestras rehearse once a week, for an entire school year. Orchestra members must make a commitment to attend rehearsals every week. Please carefully consider your student and family schedule to determine whether a student is able to commit to the rehearsal and concert schedule.
• If a student must miss rehearsal, arrive late or leave early, the Ensembles Representative must be notified as soon as possible by email. For a last-minute absence, please call the Ensembles Representative at 314-246-4450 or the main phone line at 314-968-5939.
• If a student can only attend part of a rehearsal, that is still preferable to missing the entire rehearsal. If a student misses a rehearsal, it is the student’s responsibility to contact another ensemble member to get rehearsal notes and practice assignments.
• Rehearsal habits make an impression on conductors, and that impression can influence future decisions about leadership and participation.
• Action plan for absences
  • Three (3) absences in one orchestral cycle — conference with the parent, Ensembles Representative and the conductor (when available).
  • Four (4) absences in one orchestral cycle — the Ensembles Representative will send a reminder email that the student needs to attend all further rehearsals.
  • Five (5) absences in one orchestral cycle — further student participation is solely at the discretion of the conductor.

Violin/viola/cello: play all scales, 3 octaves, 3 notes per bow, without music
Double basses: play all scales, 2 octaves, 3 notes per bow, without music
Winds/brass: play all scales, including chromatic, minimum 2 octaves/range of the instrument, following the rhythm pattern for Missouri All-State auditions (select All-State Band Wind Audition Materials 2021-2024)

• Major Scales: C, G, D, A, F, B-flat
• Melodic minor scales: a, e, b, f-sharp, d, g, c

An unaccompanied solo of the student's choice that best demonstrates their ability.

Excerpts will be available in early July.

• 2024-2025 YPCO Violin Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Viola Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Cello Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Double Bass Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Flute Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Oboe Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Clarinet Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Bassoon Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Horn Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Trumpet Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Trombone Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPCO Tuba Excerpt

YPCO/YPSO suggested solo guidelines:

The following repertoire list indicates the minimum playing level generally reached by students in the Young People’s Concert and Symphonic Orchestras. This guide for applicants and their teachers indicates the orchestra’s range in technical level and repertoire. There are many other works not listed that are appropriate for auditioning.

Please review the attendance policy before auditioning. Students must be able to attend the following Dress Rehearsal and Concert Dates to audition.

How are audition times assigned?

Auditions are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Audition times are at a premium and fill up quickly.

What if I am unavailable on my assigned audition date?

Please email to let the Ensembles Representative, ginachristopher@webster.edu, know of your conflict as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate a change, but please be aware that there may not be a different available day or time.

What happens in the audition?

You will be assigned a warm-up room when you arrive for your audition. When it is time, the Ensembles Representative will lead you from your warm-up room to the audition room. You should be dressed in a way as to make a serious and respectful impression. When you enter the audition room, make sure you smile and say hello to the judges, and introduce yourself. You will play your scale first, solo second and excerpts last.

What scales will I play?

The scales the judges will request is included with the excerpts. If you are auditioning for both orchestras you need to prepare both YPCO and YPSO’s listed scales.

Will I play everything I have been asked to prepare?

The judges may stop you at any point, ask you to play something at a faster/slower tempo, in a different style, or they may only have you play a portion of a piece. This is not a commentary on your playing; it is mostly to keep the auditions running on time.

What excerpts do I play if I am auditioning for both YPCO and YPSO?

You need to prepare the scales and excerpts for both groups. The judges will tell you which ones to play when you are in the audition room.

Can I talk to the judges?

Sure, but please be aware that these auditions are only five minutes long. There are a lot of students auditioning and the judges are trying to stay on time so they are not going to be very talkative. Parents cannot talk to the judges. The Ensembles Representative is happy to answer questions.

How will I find out about audition results?

All audition results will be sent out by email the week following the audition. No results will be given over the phone. Please do not call as it inhibits our ability to get notifications out in a timely fashion. Please remember that a large number of students are auditioning this year and that students should expect admissions to be competitive. Previous admission does not guarantee current admission.

• When you join an orchestra program, you recognize that attendance is vital to the group. Being present, prepared and attentive is the responsibility of every musician. When you miss rehearsal, you are missed not only by the conductor, but by the entire group.
• Please plan on arriving for rehearsal at the time requested by the conductor. This will allow for unpacking your instrument, tuning and a quick hello to your stand partner. Be focused and ready when the conductor begins.
• CMS orchestras rehearse once a week, for an entire school year. Orchestra members must make a commitment to attend rehearsals every week. Please carefully consider your student and family schedule to determine whether a student is able to commit to the rehearsal and concert schedule.
• If a student must miss rehearsal, arrive late or leave early, the Ensembles Representative must be notified as soon as possible by email. For a last-minute absence, please call the Ensembles Representative at 314-246-4450 or the main phone line at 314-968-5939.
• If a student can only attend part of a rehearsal, that is still preferable to missing the entire rehearsal. If a student misses a rehearsal, it is the student’s responsibility to contact another ensemble member to get rehearsal notes and practice assignments.
• Rehearsal habits make an impression on conductors, and that impression can influence future decisions about leadership and participation.
• Action plan for absences
  • Three (3) absences in one orchestral cycle — conference with the parent, Ensembles Representative and the conductor (when available).
  • Four (4) absences in one orchestral cycle — the Ensembles Representative will send a reminder email that the student needs to attend all further rehearsals.
  • Five (5) absences in one orchestral cycle — further student participation is solely at the discretion of the conductor.

Violin/viola/cello: play all scales, 3 octaves, 3 notes per bow, without music
Double basses: play all scales, 3 octaves, 3 notes per bow, without music
Winds/brass: play all scales, including chromatic, minimum 2 octaves/range of the instrument, following the rhythm pattern for Missouri All-State auditions (select All-State Band Wind Audition Materials 2021-2024)

• Major Scales: C, G, D, A, E, F, B-flat, E-flat, A-flat
• Melodic minor scales: a, e, b, f-sharp, c-sharp, d, g, c, f

An unaccompanied solo of the student's choice that best demonstrates their ability.

Excerpts will be available in early July.

• 2024-2025 YPSO Violin Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Viola Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Cello Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Double Bass Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Flute Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Oboe Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Clarinet Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Bassoon Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Horn Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Trumpet Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Trombone Excerpt
• 2024-2025 YPSO Tuba Excerpt

YPCO/YPSO suggested solo guidelines:

The following repertoire list indicates the minimum playing level generally reached by students in the Young People’s Concert and Symphonic Orchestras. This guide for applicants and their teachers indicates the orchestra’s range in technical level and repertoire. There are many other works not listed that are appropriate for auditioning.

Please review the attendance policy before auditioning. Students must be able to attend the following Dress Rehearsal and Concert Dates to audition.

** YPSO was selected to perform at Carnegie Hall in 2025.  All accepted 2024-2025 YPSO students will be required to make the commitment to participate in this trip.  The date has changed, and the trip will now be April 16-19, with a performance on April 18.  An additional financial obligation estimated between $2,200-2,600 per student is required.  Participating in fundraising activities is also required. **

How are audition times assigned?

Auditions are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Audition times are at a premium and fill up quickly.

What if I am unavailable on my assigned audition date?

Please email to let the Ensembles Representative, ginachristopher@webster.edu, know of your conflict as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate a change, but please be aware that there may not be a different available day or time.

What happens in the audition?

You will be assigned a warm-up room when you arrive for your audition. When it is time, the Ensembles Representative will lead you from your warm-up room to the audition room. You should be dressed in a way as to make a serious and respectful impression. When you enter the audition room, make sure you smile and say hello to the judges, and introduce yourself. You will play your scale first, solo second and excerpts last.

What scales will I play?

The scales the judges will request is included with the excerpts. If you are auditioning for both orchestras you need to prepare both YPCO and YPSO’s listed scales.

Will I play everything I have been asked to prepare?

The judges may stop you at any point, ask you to play something at a faster/slower tempo, in a different style, or they may only have you play a portion of a piece. This is not a commentary on your playing; it is mostly to keep the auditions running on time.

What excerpts do I play if I am auditioning for both YPCO and YPSO?

You need to prepare the scales and excerpts for both groups. The judges will tell you which ones to play when you are in the audition room.

Can I talk to the judges?

Sure, but please be aware that these auditions are only five minutes long. There are a lot of students auditioning and the judges are trying to stay on time so they are not going to be very talkative. Parents cannot talk to the judges. The Ensembles Representative is happy to answer questions.

How will I find out about audition results?

All audition results will be sent out by email the week following the audition. No results will be given over the phone. Please do not call as it inhibits our ability to get notifications out in a timely fashion. Please remember that a large number of students are auditioning this year and that students should expect admissions to be competitive. Previous admission does not guarantee current admission.

** YPSO was selected to perform at Carnegie Hall in 2025.  All accepted 2024-2025 YPSO students will be required to make the commitment to participate in this trip.  The date has changed, and the trip will now be April 16-19, with a performance on April 18.  An additional financial obligation estimated between $2,200-2,600 per student is required.  Participating in fundraising activities is also required. **

• When you join an orchestra program, you recognize that attendance is vital to the group. Being present, prepared and attentive is the responsibility of every musician. When you miss rehearsal, you are missed not only by the conductor, but by the entire group.
• Please plan on arriving for rehearsal at the time requested by the conductor. This will allow for unpacking your instrument, tuning and a quick hello to your stand partner. Be focused and ready when the conductor begins.
• CMS orchestras rehearse once a week, for an entire school year. Orchestra members must make a commitment to attend rehearsals every week. Please carefully consider your student and family schedule to determine whether a student is able to commit to the rehearsal and concert schedule.
• If a student must miss rehearsal, arrive late or leave early, the Ensembles Representative must be notified as soon as possible by email. For a last-minute absence, please call the Ensembles Representative at 314-246-4450 or the main phone line at 314-968-5939.
• If a student can only attend part of a rehearsal, that is still preferable to missing the entire rehearsal. If a student misses a rehearsal, it is the student’s responsibility to contact another ensemble member to get rehearsal notes and practice assignments.
• Rehearsal habits make an impression on conductors, and that impression can influence future decisions about leadership and participation.
• Action plan for absences
  • Three (3) absences in one orchestral cycle — conference with the parent, Ensembles Representative and the conductor (when available).
  • Four (4) absences in one orchestral cycle — the Ensembles Representative will send a reminder email that the student needs to attend all further rehearsals.
  • Five (5) absences in one orchestral cycle — further student participation is solely at the discretion of the conductor.

Be prepared to play all major and minor scales and arpeggios through 4 sharps and 4 flats including chromatic, minimum 2 octaves, following the rhythm for Missouri All-State auditions (select All-State Band Wind Audition Materials 2021-2024)

On snare drum: closed roll (soft to loud to soft), double stroke roll (slow to fast to slow)

An unaccompanied solo of the student's choice that best demonstrates their ability.

The following is a list of suggested repertoire, however, you may play other appropriate material you have prepared.

• Snare Drum: Any of the Cirone Portraits in Rhythm or Whaley Audition Etudes
• Mallet/Keyboard: Any 2- or 4-mallet solo, including those on the MSHSAA Solo and Ensemble list.
• Timpani: Saul Goodman Etudes and excerpts or Whaley Audition Etudes

Students will be selected based on musicality, technique, and competence within a concert percussion setting.

Excerpts will be available in early July.

2024-2025 YPOP Excerpts

Please review the attendance policy before auditioning. Students must be able to attend the following Dress Rehearsal and Concert Dates to audition.

Same as YPCO or YPSO based on group assignment.

** YPSO was selected to perform at Carnegie Hall in 2025.  All accepted 2024-2025 YPSO students will be required to make the commitment to participate in this trip.  The date has changed, and the trip will now be April 16-19, with a performance on April 18.  An additional financial obligation estimated between $2,200-2,600 per student is required.  Participating in fundraising activities is also required. **

All accepted YPOP students will meet for percussion-only rehearsals on Mondays from 4:15–6:15 p.m. (YPSO) or Thursdays from 4:15–6:15 p.m. (YPCO). YPOP students will have a total of nine rehearsals and a concert with the full orchestra each semester.

Semester Summary

• Three YPOP only rehearsals
• Five rehearsals with the assigned orchestra
• One dress rehearsal with the assigned orchestra
• One concert with the assigned orchestra

How are audition times assigned?

Auditions are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Audition times are at a premium and fill up quickly.

What if I am unavailable on my assigned audition date?

Please email to let the Ensembles Representative, ginachristopher@webster.edu, know of your conflict as soon as possible. Every effort will be made to accommodate a change, but please be aware that there may not be a different available day or time.

What happens in the audition?

You should arrive at least 15 minutes before your assigned audition time. Please bring all necessary sticks and mallets and music for the material you are requested to demonstrate. There will be a proctor to meet with each student and review the procedure as well as take them into the percussion studio where the audition will take place.  The auditions will be "blind."  The adjudicator is a professional from outside of CMS.  YPOP auditionees will not speak during the audition to maintain the anonymous aspect of a blind audition.  Each YPOP candidate will be assigned a number to maintain their anonymity. 

What scales will I play?

You will be asked to play three scales of the adjudicator’s choice (through 4 sharps/flats in major, melodic minor, chromatic).

What else will I play?

You will be asked to demonstrate the snare drum excerpts, and a closed snare drum roll, soft-to-loud-to-soft over a period of approximately 30-40 seconds. You will be asked to perform a mallet solo of your choice. You will most likely be asked to stop before you complete the piece in consideration of the time allotted for the audition. Please have a copy of the music available for the adjudicator to follow- along as you perform. 

Will I play everything I have been asked to prepare?

The judge may stop you at any point, ask you to play something at a faster/slower tempo, in a different style, or they may only have you play a portion of a piece. This is not a commentary on your playing; it is mostly to keep the auditions running on time.

How will I find out about audition results?

Audition results will be shared between late August and early September--about 2-3 weeks. No results will be given over the phone. Please do not call as it inhibits our ability to get notifications out in a timely fashion.

** YPSO was selected to perform at Carnegie Hall in 2025.  All accepted 2024-2025 YPSO students will be required to make the commitment to participate in this trip.  The date has changed, and the trip will now be April 16-19, with a performance on April 18.  An additional financial obligation estimated between $2,200-2,600 per student is required.  Participating in fundraising activities is also required. **

• When you join an orchestra program, you recognize that attendance is vital to the group. Being present, prepared and attentive is the responsibility of every musician. When you miss rehearsal, you are missed not only by the conductor, but by the entire group.
• Please plan on arriving for rehearsal at the time requested by the conductor. This will allow for unpacking your instrument, tuning and a quick hello to your stand partner. Be focused and ready when the conductor begins.
• CMS orchestras rehearse once a week, for an entire school year. Orchestra members must make a commitment to attend rehearsals every week. Please carefully consider your student and family schedule to determine whether a student is able to commit to the rehearsal and concert schedule.
• If a student must miss rehearsal, arrive late or leave early, the Ensembles Representative must be notified as soon as possible by email. For a last-minute absence, please call the Ensembles Representative at 314-246-4450 or the main phone line at 314-968-5939.
• If a student can only attend part of a rehearsal, that is still preferable to missing the entire rehearsal. If a student misses a rehearsal, it is the student’s responsibility to contact another ensemble member to get rehearsal notes and practice assignments.
• Rehearsal habits make an impression on conductors, and that impression can influence future decisions about leadership and participation.
• Action plan for absences
  • Three (3) absences in one orchestral cycle — conference with the parent, Ensembles Representative and the conductor (when available).
  • Four (4) absences in one orchestral cycle — the Ensembles Representative will send a reminder email that the student needs to attend all further rehearsals.
  • Five (5) absences in one orchestral cycle — further student participation is solely at the discretion of the conductor.

Auditions will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 in the Winifred Moore Auditorium on the Webster University campus in Webster Groves.

Audition applications are now closed. Please email Laura Holzen with inquiries.

1. Complete the Chamber Music Audition Application.
2. Write a short 2-3 sentence bio to be used for your audition profile. Include your name, your grade, the school you attend, the instrument you play and who you study with, and some interesting facts about yourself that will help us know you.
3. Choose a selfie, headshot, or photo you would like to use for your audition profile.
4. Select two pieces with contrasting styles. Your preliminary audition may not exceed 6 minutes including tuning, transition time, and performance of both selections. If you are chosen to compete in the Scholarship Competition, your audition time will increase to 10 minutes including tuning, transition time, and performance of both selections. Abrupt cuts in the accompaniment may be made for the sake of time.
5. Create a .pdf of your part for both solos with the excerpts clearly marked. Be sure to include the title and composer on each.
6. Email your bio, selfie/headshot/photo, and .pdfs of your pieces to the Prep Program Artistic Coordinator. Make the subject of your email Prep Audition Profile First Name Last Name, for example, “Prep Audition Profile Aaron Copeland”. Send them no later than Wednesday, Sept. 4.
7. You will receive a separate email regarding your piano rehearsal.
8. You will receive a separate email regarding your audition time.
9. Finalists for the scholarship competition will be notified after the completion of all auditions on Saturday, Sept. 7.
10. The scholarship competition will take place on Sunday, Sept. 8. It is open to the public.

Electives and class meetings take place on Wednesdays during each rotation.

Do I have to play in the live audition to get into the Prep program?

Yes, all auditions are live.

How many live auditions are there each year?

One in early September before the academic year begins.

How do I get into the scholarship competition?

Between four and eight scholarship competition finalists will be selected from the auditions. All students who perform an audition are automatically eligible for the scholarship round.

Do I have to stay at CMS after my audition?

No, you are welcome to leave after your audition and we will notify you of the results when they are posted.

How big of a time commitment is Prep?

The majority of Prep activities happen during our three academic year rotations (fall, winter, spring). There can be some variation in time commitment depending on chamber group assignment. The most serious groups with the goal of entering competitions might meet 2-3 times per week whereas a new quartet may only meet 1-2 times per week. In addition to chamber meetings, Prep students also attend two all-prep gatherings and 4-5 music theory classes per cycle.  Students may also choose to participate in a mastercalss or recital each rotation.

Students auditioning for Prep will automatically be considered for the Prep Scholarship Competition held in the CMS Concert Hall the following day on Sept. 8.

 

 

Sunday, Sept. 8
Prep Scholarship Competition
CMS Concert Hall
6 p.m.

The top 4-8 students auditioning in the preliminary round on Saturday will proceed to a Scholarship round on Sunday, Sept. 8 at the Community Music School. The winner of the Prep Scholarship Competition will receive a full-tuition scholarship ($1,065) for all three rotations of the 2024-2025 CMS Preparatory Program.

To participate in the program students must be at or beyond the following representative minimum skill levels:

Violin: Suzuki Book 4-Vivaldi a minor Concerto

Viola: Suzuki Book 4-Seitz Concerto No. 2, 3^rd movement

Cello: Suzuki Book 4-Breval Sonata in C Major

Piano: Clementi or Kuhlau Sonatinas

*Students who participate in the Summer Program Chamber Music Encounter may participate in Chamber Music Exploration. No additional audition required.

Auditions will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 in the Winifred Moore Auditorium on the Webster University campus in Webster Groves.

Audition applications for the 2024-2025 academic year are now closed.  Please email Laura Holzen with inquiries.

*If you participated in Chamber Music Encounter in 2024, complete items 1-4. No audition is required.

1. Complete the Chamber Music Audition Application.
2. Write a short 2-3 sentence bio to be used for your audition profile. Include your name, your grade, the school you attend, the instrument you play and who you study with, and some interesting facts about yourself that will help us know you.
3. Choose a selfie, headshot, or photo you would like to use for your audition profile.
4. Email your bio and selfie/headshot/photo to the Prep Program Artistic Coordinator. Make the subject of your email CMX Audition Bio First Name Last Name; for example, “CMX Audition Bio Aaron Copeland.” Send them no later than Wednesday, Sept. 4.
   
   If you did not participate in Chamber Music Encounter during the summer of 2024, continue and complete the remaining items.
   
   
5. Select two pieces with contrasting styles. You should perform for at least 4 minutes; your audition may not exceed 6 minutes including tuning, transition time, and performance of both selections. You do not need to play with an accompanist.
6. Create a pdf of your part for both solos with the excerpts clearly marked. Be sure to include the title and composer on each.
7. Email your bio, selfie/headshot/photo, and *pdfs of your pieces to the Prep Program Artistic Coordinator. Make the subject of your email CMX Audition Music First Name Last Name, for example, “CMX Audition Music Aaron Copeland”. Send them no later than Wednesday, Sept. 4.
8. You will receive a separate email regarding your audition time.