Auditions 2025-2026

To the current and future Bobcats, we are so excited to welcome you to our program next year!  There is a place for every one of you in the Cy-Fair orchestra program, and the purpose of this audition is to find that place.

This audition has two level options.  Level 1 is the upper level.  If you wish to be in Chamber, you must do this level.  Level 2 is the audition for all other groups.  If you do level 1 and are not placed in Chamber, you will still be considered for all other groups.

Note to incoming 9th graders: it is unlikely that any freshmen will be in Chamber.  I believe it is beneficial to be in a group with other underclassmen before joining the varsity ensemble.  If I suspect that a student will make region and qualify to audition for All-State, I might make an exception.  Also, students who do not submit an audition will automatically be placed in Camerata Orchestra.

Note to current Fair students: even though I already have an idea of your placement based on how you have done this year, submitting an audition is required for your final exam.  Also, no student will be placed in Chamber without an audition.  Use this opportunity well, this is your chance to prove to me which group you think is right for you!

Please submit your audition here by Sunday evening, May 18.  This will enable placements to be completed by May 23.  Only video submissions will be accepted.  Make sure it shows you playing!  It helps me learn your names before the school year begins.

I’m looking forward to hearing your audition!  The deadline is May 18.  Auditions will be accepted after the deadline, but please try to be on time.

Chamber (Level 1)

2 3-octave scales, 1 major and 1 minor, with 2 octave arpeggios in the same key.

• Violin options:

  • Major: A, D, C, Bb

  • Minor: G, C, B, D

• Viola options:

  • Major: D, G, F, Eb

  • Minor: C, F, E, G

• Cello options:

  • Major: D, G, F, Eb

  • Minor: C, F, E, G

• Bass options:

  • Major: A, D, G, Bb

  • Minor: G, E, C, A

Excerpt of All-State Etude (see below)

Excerpt of Solo

• May be what you played for Solo and Ensemble or another choice.  Not class orchestra music.

• Preferably, something lyrical that can show off your vibrato.

All Other Orchestras (Level 2)

2 2/3-octave scales, with 1 octave arpeggios in the same key.  Both major and minor scales are acceptable.

Etude (see below)

Excerpt of Solo

• May be what you played for Solo and Ensemble.  Not class orchestra music.

• Can you do vibrato?  Pick a solo that shows that off!

Level 1 Etude Excerpts

Level 2 Etudes