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Orchestras

Seating Auditions for Strings

Seating auditions for String Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra are held during Welcome Week at the beginning of the fall semester or by special arrangement with Dr. Moore. Note: Music admission and scholarship auditions are held separately from ensemble seating auditions. Symphony Orchestra woodwind, brass, and percussion openings are filled by appointment and audition.

Students should download and prepare the bracketed excerpts provided below (two excerpts per instrument). A brief sight-reading excerpt will also be required. 

University Symphony Orchestra and String Orchestra Seating Audition Excerpts (all students will play both excerpts)

Violin

Bach – Concerto, BWV 1057, Finale, mm. 11-41

Beethoven – Symphony No. 5, Finale, beginning (m. 374) – downbeat of rehearsal A (m. 399)

Viola

Bach – Concerto, BWV 1057, Finale, mm. 1-27

Beethoven – Symphony No. 5, II, mm. 1-10 and mm. 98-106

Cello

Bach – Concerto, BWV 1057, Finale, mm. 15-41

Beethoven – Symphony No. 5, II, mm. 1-10 and mm. 98-106

Bass

Bach – Concerto, BWV 1057, Finale, mm. 15-41

Beethoven – Symphony No. 5, III, pickup to mm. 141-182 (with repeat)

Reference Recordings

Bach, Concerto BWV 1057, Finale (all instruments)

Beethoven, Symphony No. 5, IV (violin)

Beethoven, Symphony No. 5, II (viola and cello)

Beethoven, Symphony No. 5, III (bass)