AWARD-WINNING YOUTH ORCHESTRA
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Why MPO?
Top 3 reasons why we are the orchestra program for you.
1.
The MPO offers nationally-recognized orchestral training as a recipient of numerous awards including the American Prize and Youth Orchestra of the Year (ICO).
2.
At MPO, all ages and backgrounds are welcome which allows for a unique, diverse, and collaborative environment.
3.
We offer competitive tuition rates to serve
any and all students interested in the Chicagoland area.
And the list goes on...
Join our MPO family this fall!
3 Step Application Process
Deadline: June 1, 2026
Step 1
Fill out your online application below.
Step 2
Record and upload your audition videos.
(See audition requirements below.)
Step 3
After submission, you will be notified of your results.
Please contact info@midphil.org to be considered after the deadline.
Fall 2026 Audition Requirements
New membership auditions for Fall 2026 are currently being held online.
Applications will close on June 1, 2026.
Please contact the office to be considered after the deadline.
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Scales
[Winds and Brass] All 12 major scales.
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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)
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Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra & Chamber Orchestra
(One scale of choice, one required)
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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 guidelines below:
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Midwest String Orchestra (For all strings): A solo piece or passage that includes up to 3rd (or 5th) position.
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Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra (For all strings): A solo piece or passage that includes up to 5th (or higher) position.
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Midwest Chamber Orchestra:
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Violin: W.A. Mozart Concerto No. 4 or 5, or something equivalent
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Viola: C. Stamitz Concerto in D, or something equivalent
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Cello: Haydn Concerto in C or D, or something equivalent
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Bass: A standard concert piece
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There is NO sight-reading required.
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After The Audition
Participants will receive their results within the following weeks.
For any questions regarding the audition process, please contact the office at info@midphil.org.
