Thank you for registering for a QCSYE audition! Please submit an audition video (containing both video and audio) using the Audition Submission Form below by Wednesday, May 14. You can share your video via a public or unlisted YouTube link (preferred).
Video Recording Guidelines
- Recordings can be made with basic equipment, including a smart phone, tablet, or laptop, equipped with a built-in microphone and video camera. High quality recording equipment is NOT necessary.
- While sound quality of submitted videos may vary due to differences in recording equipment, judges will listen for the overall quality of a students performance and not the quality of recording.
- Audition recordings must be completed in a single take (no editing or piecing together) in this order: scales, solo, excerpt(s). Any evidence of video manipulation may disqualify the submission. You may record the audition as many times as you’d like, and you should submit the recording you believe best represents your playing. (Note: Percussion auditions may be recorded separately and edited together for demonstrating different instrument techniques.)
- Your instrument and full person should be visible in the video so judges can assess technique and posture. Please minimize other visual distractions in the video (music stand not blocking view of student or instrument, family members, etc.). Headphones or headsets may not be worn during recordings.
- One submission per student will be accepted. Multiple submissions from a single student are not allowed unless auditioning on multiple instruments.
- Please review video before submitting to ensure that required components are included and video is properly linked and set to public or unlisted for multiple people to view.
- Submissions are due by Wednesday, May 14, 2025. If you have questions regarding the audition video submission process, please contact Chelsea Sammons, Director of Education + Community Engagement, at csammons@qcso.org.
- Video length should not exceed 10 minutes.
- See sample audition videos from current QCSYE members: Violin Example Audition, Tuba Example Audition, and Bassoon Example Audition
- We highly encourage you to test out your audio/video equipment by recording a few notes with varying articulations and dynamics to ensure your equipment picks up your sound and image as clearly as possible.
Audition Performance Order
- Begin your video by stating your name and instrument (“Hello, my name is John and I am auditioning on the clarinet.”).
- Scales
- Solo (1 minute excerpt)
- Excerpt(s)
Evaluation
- The primary criterion for placement is the student’s playing, including factors such as sound quality, pitch, rhythmic accuracy, intonation, technique, and expression.
- Other factors such as age or instrumentation needs may be considered as well.
Financial Aid is available. The QCSYE is committed to serving students regardless of financial constraints. The Financial Aid Application will be made available once placement letters are sent in early June.