Auditioned Groups

For certain groups we ask students to audition. Applications are welcomed from dancers or musicians who wish to join one of the groups below or to progress to a more advanced group. The audition panel will consist of group leaders and tutors who will give every assistance in making students feel at ease. We strive to ensure that there is an informal atmosphere that we hope will make the whole process as enjoyable as possible.

Dance Auditions:

Youth Dance Company
The audition is open to male and female students aged 14-18 years (Year 10 and above) who have been recommended by schools, colleges or dance schools in the local area.

Recommended students must display the following:

A high level of technical skills
A good understanding of contemporary dance technique
Openness to exploring different choreographic approaches
Ability to work creatively in groups and individually
A strong desire to perform
A full commitment to the rehearsal & performance schedule - including additional dates as and when they are available

Instrumental Auditions:

Entry Standards
The standards outlined below are broad guidelines of the standards we would require for each ensemble. These may vary a little according to instrument. Grades stated are for guidance only and for musicians who do not take exams, please do not let this deter you. If you require further information, please discuss this with your instrumental teacher or contact Brighton & Hove Music, Arts and Study Support.

BHYSE, BYO, BHYBB and BHYCB are only open to players of secondary age. BHJYO is open to players of Junior and Secondary age. All other ensembles below are only open to players of secondary age.

For entry to BHYSE (string players) the requirement is to be working towards Grade 8 or above
For entry to BYO (all orchestral instruments) the minimum requirement is Grade 7 (strings and woodwind), Grade 6 (brass) and percussionists must have had prior experience of orchestra/band/ensemble playing
For entry to BHYBB (drum kit, bass and rhythm guitar, keyboard, saxophone, trombone and trumpet) the minimum requirement is Grade 6
For entry to BHYCB (woodwind, brass, and percussion) the minimum requirement is Grade 6
For entry to BHYP (all orchestral instruments) the minimum requirement is Grade 5
For entry to BHJYO (all orchestral instruments) the minimum requirement is Grade 3 but in some sections the entry level of candidates may be higher. These auditions are very informal and sight reading is not required
Prince Regents Musicians is open to players, many already in BYO, who are grade 8 or above and for whom making music as a serious part of their lives

Audition Requirements

Music requirements
There are no set pieces for the auditions but you will need to prepare either two short contrasting pieces or one piece of up to five minutes. We suggest that you do not play the most difficult piece(s) that you know, but play what shows you at your best, and gives you an opportunity to demonstrate the range of your ability and to give a real performance.

Scales requirements
For entry to BYO, BHYP, BHYCB and BHJYO you will be expected to know some scales or study excerpts applicable to grade requirement of that orchestra (from any of the examination boards). For BYO you will be asked to play from a list of 6 scales or arpeggios (or appropriate study) of your choice, while in BHYP, BHYCB and BHJYO you may be asked only to play two scales chosen by yourself (or appropriate study)

Sight-Reading
Sight reading (not for BHJYO) will be given to you during the audition.

Accompanists
It is not expected that you will need an accompanist. However if you would prefer to bring your own accompanist, please notify us in advance.

Audition Dates And Times

The main auditions are held annually for specific orchestras and bands in late June early July. However places are often available throughout the year and auditions are arranged according to demand and places available.

Confirmed audition dates for 2007 are:
Mon 25th June, from 4.30pm
Brighton & Hove Junior Youth Orchestra (BHJYO)

Tues 26th June, from 4pm
Brighton Youth Orchestra (BYO) and Brighton & Hove Youth String Ensemble (BHYSE)

Wed 27th June, from 5pm
Brighton & Hove Youth Philharmonia (BHYP)

Tues 3rd July, from 5pm
Brighton & Hove Youth Philharmonia (BHYP)

Wed 4th July, from 4pm
Brighton & Hove Big Band (BHBB) and Brighton & Hove Youth Concert Band (BHYCB)

» How to Apply

Instrumental Concerto and Vocal Soloist Auditions

All orchestras include concertos (works for soloist with an orchestra) as part of their natural programming. We feel it is very important to give concerto opportunities to young people rather than just using already established soloists. Because playing solo with an orchestra requires considerable confidence based on sound and highly developed technical and musical skills we feel that auditions are the best and fairest way to give those who wish to perform a concerto a chance to be heard. This is done in a friendly and supportive atmosphere with piano accompaniment and the panel then choose one or more outstanding performers, who are playing an appropriate work, the chance to perform with orchestra.

Eligibility
All players and vocal soloists of 21 years or less living in Sussex.

Awards
Performances of chosen concerto soloists with Brighton Youth Orchestra (BYO) and its younger counterpart the Brighton and Hove Youth Philharmonia (BHYP) or with associated ensembles.

Performances of chosen vocal soloists to perform some jazz numbers with Brighton & Hove Big Band (BHBB)

Preliminary Round
Potential soloists should prepare a tape, CD, video or mini disk for the first round from which a number of candidates will be chosen for the final. Recordings should arrive, with application form, by Friday 2nd June.

Date of Auditions
Sunday afternoon 2nd July.

Performers, parents and friends can attend these auditions which are held in a friendly atmosphere and where feedback is given in the form of a verbal adjudication at the end.