Each audition requires the student to play a solo and a selection of scales, as well as requiring the student to sight-read some music.
The solo must be selected from the listed pieces for the level of orchestra the student hopes to join, or be of comparable difficulty. All solos should be played at the appropriate tempo, with attention to musicality. Solos do not need to be memorized or accompanied, though that is encouraged. Please provide a copy of your solo for your judges.
The student must be prepared to play ALL of the scales listed for the level of orchestra the student hopes to join. The judges will typically only require two or three of these scales to be played. For your convenience, we have included scale sheets that you can use in preparation for the audition. Fingerings have been included as suggestions.
The sight-reading excerpts will be chosen by the judges, who will ensure that it is the appropriate level for the student.
String Orchestra
Solos: Suzuki Book 1 Etude, Minuet in C, Minuet No 2; Suzuki Book 2: Minuet No 1
Scales: D, G, and C Major; “a” melodic minor and “e” melodic minor–1 octave
Download String Cello Scales
Chamber Orchestra
Solos: From Suzuki Books: Two Grenadiers, Gavotte, Bouree, or Bercuse
Scales: D, G, C, A, E Major–2 octaves; B flat and F Major–1 octave; A, E, B, G minor–1 or 2 octave
Download Chamber Cello Scales here
Symphony Orchestra
Solos: Two movements from a Marcelo, Vivaldi, or Breval sonata
Scales: “Regional audition requirements”– all major key signatures up to 4 flats, 4 sharps, and their relative melodic minor scales- All scales must be at least two octaves. 1 scale must be 3 octaves.
Download Symphony Cello Scales here