String Ensemble

The String Ensemble includes violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. Students in the ensemble will focus on development of orchestral performance techniques, musicianship, sight-reading, and ensemble skills. Repertoire is in the intermediate range.

Approximately 30 student musicians are accepted each year; selection is based primarily on demonstrated ability and musicianship, but orchestral balance is also considered.

All new and returning students must audition for placement.

Duration
Weekly on Wednesdays, 6–6:50 pm
Additional meetings will be scheduled as needed; a detailed calendar of meeting dates will be provided with the acceptance letter.

Prerequisites
Participants must study privately and have good intermediate sight-reading skills. Previous orchestral experience is encouraged.

Minimum Age Requirement
5th grade; must be 10 years old by September 1, 2024

Recommended Minimum Level of Playing
Violin: Concerto in A Minor, A. Vivaldi
Viola: Bourrée, J.S. Bach
Cello: Sonata in C Major, J.B. Breval
Bass: Gavotte, J.B. Lully

Audition Information

Auditions for the 2024–25 academic year for String Ensemble will be held through an online submission process. The application period will close at 11:59 pm PDT on May 26. Applications submitted after the deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Once classes reach their maximum capacity with qualified students, no additional applications will be considered.

Audition results will be sent to the email address given for the student’s primary guardian (Guardian 1) by midnight on June 10. Accepted students must register by August 1.

Audition Requirements

Please record yourself playing the required audition materials for your instrument linked below. All applicants must prepare the following:

  1. Two- or three-octave scale (scale requirement varies by instrument and desired ensemble placement)
  2. Polished solo piece, 2-3 minutes in length, that represents your technical skill and musicianship.
  3. Audition excerpts (excerpts vary by instrument)

Do not use an accompanist. Upload the video to YouTube and share the link in the application form below. Note: Private teacher’s written approval will be required for registration in this class.

Audition Materials by Instrument
Violin
Viola
Cello
Double Bass

Online Submission Instructions

  1. Start your video by clearly stating your full name, the ensemble you are auditioning for, and the name and composer of your solo piece.
  2. Play your scale first, followed by your solo piece, and then the audition excerpts.
  3. The recording must be made continuously, without edits. Do not use piano accompaniment. We want the video to simulate a live audition as closely as possible.
  4. Please name the file by the following format: First name Last name.Instrument
    For example, John Smith.Violin
  5. When uploading the video to YouTube, make sure the video is marked “unlisted.” An unlisted video cannot be found by the general public, but you will be able to share the link with the Community School.
  6. Once you have completed your video, please fill out the application form below. You will need the link to your YouTube video to complete the application form. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

String Ensemble Application Form

String Ensemble Application Form