Auditions | Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra

A Nationally Recognized Orchestra, Right Here In Your Community.

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Why Join MPO?

Top 3 reasons why MPO is the orchestra for you.

2. The MPO accepts all musicians equally, regardless of age, race/ethnicity, and sexuality, creating a diverse environment.

1. The MPO is a winner of the

American Prize in Orchestral Performance,

naming it one of the top youth community orchestras in the United States.

3. We offer competitive tuition costs to serve

any and all students interested in the Chicagoland.

And the list goes on...

Join us this fall to have the orchestral experience you always wanted.

Applying is just as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Step 1

Fill out your online MPO application below.

Step 2

Record and upload your audition videos into the same application.
(See audition requirements below.)

Step 3

Just click submit and we will respond in a few days with your results!

Apply Here

Applicants will be accepted on a

rolling basis until August 1, 2021.

2021-22 Season Information
The MPO will be returning to regular full orchestra activities this fall.

We will be closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation. The Midwest Conservatory Orchestra room will not be used. Instead, we will be having rehearsals at the Prince of Peace Church (Schaumburg) in order to have ample distance between musicians, especially wind musicians.

COVID-19 Vaccinations are recommended, but not required. Disclaimer: The MPO does not take responsibility for unvaccinated personnel who contract COVID-19. Students will be asked to sign a liability waiver.

Audition Requirements

New membership auditions for Fall 2021 are currently being held virtually.

Applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis until August 1, 2021.

Scales

[Winds and Brass] All 12 major scales.

Click here to see your instrument's required scales.

[Strings] Scales in three (or two) octaves. Please play 80 to 120 per quarter note with separate bows. Please refer to your required scales:

Midwest String Orchestra Scales (Two scales of choice)

Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra & Core Members (One scale of choice, one required)

Repertoire

[Winds and Brass] Two contrasting solos, movements or etudes. No accompaniment needed.

[Strings] A solo piece that shows the candidate’s techniques, musical interpretation and musicianship. No accompaniment needed. Please see chart below:

Midwest String Orchestra (For all strings): A solo piece or passage that includes up to 3rd (or 5th) position.
Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra (For all strings): A solo piece or passage that includes up to 5th (or higher) position.
Core Members:
- Violin: W.A. Mozart Concerto No. 4 or 5, or something equivalent
- Viola: C. Stamitz Concerto in D, or something equivalent
- Cello: Haydn Concerto in C or D, or something equivalent
- Bass: A standard concert piece

After The Audition

Participants will receive permission to join after the audition. All ages are welcome.

For any questions regarding the audition process, please contact us at info@midphil.org.