Auditions are conducted throughout the year and are scheduled according to the rehearsal times of the specific orchestra section being auditioned (refer to Q4 in the following FAQ section for more details). It is important to be punctual, ideally arriving early, at the audition venue, which is also the orchestra's rehearsal location.​

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Each audition is approximately 10 minutes long. Musicians must prepare two full pieces in contrasting styles that best demonstrate their musicality and technical skills.

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An excerpt will also be provided for a sight-reading test at the audition. Memorizing the music is not required, and students are expected to perform without accompaniment.

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Audition results will be announced right after the audition or communicated by our staff within one week after the audition.

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FAQ

1. ​What are the audition requirements?
   Musicians should prepare two full pieces in contrasting styles that best demonstrate their musicality and technical skills. An excerpt will also be provided for a sight-reading test at the audition.
   - MYO: Only classical pieces are acceptable; orchestral excerpts or music from other genres are not allowed.
   - MPJ: Students are encouraged to perform pieces from pop, contemporary, jazz, or classical genres to showcase their musical expression.
    

2. Is there a specific period for auditions?
   No, auditions are held throughout the year.
    

3. I’m unsure which orchestra group to apply for. What should I do?
   It’s not uncommon for parents and children to be unsure about which orchestra level to apply for. If you’re in the same situation, simply leave that field blank on your application form, and our staff will contact you to assist.
    

4. When and where are auditions held?
   Audition locations and times are scheduled based on the rehearsal times of the orchestra the musician is applying for:
   Symphony Orchestra (SO)  |  ABRSM Grade 8 or above or equivalent
   Hong Kong Cultural Centre  |  Fridays 7:00-9:30 p.m.
   
   Intermezzo Orchestra (IO)  |  ABRSM Grade 6-8 or equivalent
   Hong Kong Cultural Centre  |  Fridays 5:00-7:00 p.m.
   
   Repertory Orchestra (RO)  |  ABRSM Grade 5-6 or equivalent
   Hong Kong Cultural Centre  |  Saturdays 4:00-6:00 p.m. / Sundays 9:00-11:00 a.m.
   
   Orchestra-Lite (OL)  |  ABRSM Grade 3-4 or equivalent
   Hong Kong Cultural Centre  |  Saturdays 2:00-4:00 p.m. / Sundays 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
   
   Beginners Program (BP)  |  ABRSM Grade 3 or below
   Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Secondary School  |  Saturdays 2:00-4:00 p.m. / Saturdays 4:00-6:00 p.m.
   
   Metropolitan Pop & Jazz (MPJ)  |  ABRSM Grade 3-6 or equivalent
   Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Secondary School  |  Saturdays 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
    

5. Do I need to memorize the music?
   Memorizing the music is not required for the audition.
    

6. How long does the audition last?
   A typical audition lasts around 10 minutes. During the audition, you may be stopped and asked to proceed to your next piece. This is a common practice and does not reflect on your performance.
    

7. Is there a dress code for the audition?
   Please wear appropriate casual clothing in which you feel comfortable playing your instrument. Keep in mind that your attire creates the first impression for those evaluating you. We do not encourage clothing with offensive graphics or text, inappropriate language or images, or excessively revealing attire.
    

8. When will I find out if I have been accepted?
   Audition results will be announced right after the audition or communicated by our staff within one week after the audition.
    

9. Do I need to bring my own instrument to the audition?
   Yes, you need to bring your instrument unless you fall under the following exceptions:
   - Double Bass: A double bass will be provided, so bringing your own is not required. You are welcome to use your own if you prefer.
   - Percussion: Your audition will require one piece with a pitched instrument and one with a non-pitched instrument. While the instruments will be provided, you must bring sufficient mallets as necessary for your performance.
   - Harp: A harp will be provided, so bringing your own is not required. You are welcome to use your own if you prefer.
    

10. I do not know how to tune my instrument yet. What should I do?
    Musicians applying for OL or BP will be assisted by our coaches in tuning prior to their audition. Advanced-level players, however, are expected to tune their own instruments, as this is a fundamental procedure required before every orchestral rehearsal.
     

11. What instruments are eligible for audition applications?
    - Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
    - Woodwinds: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon
    - Brass: Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Bass Trombone, Tuba, Euphonium
    - Percussion
    We also welcome applications and auditions for instruments not listed above, but acceptance will depend on the repertoire requirements.