2013 SYO Auditions Brochure

SYDNEY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS AUDITIONS 2013

1

Sydney Youth Orchestras is the premier orchestral training organisation in NSW, forging dynamic relationships between young musicians and Australia’s leading music educators.

Sydney Youth Orchestras is not just one orchestra, it is 11 different orchestras and ensembles, providing a weekly orchestral training program for over 400 students aged from 6 to 25. With this number of SYO ensembles, are able to provide a carefully designed and implemented educational framework, matching students to the ensemble most suited to their experience, performance level and age.

Sydney Youth Orchestras has a goal to ensure that all its musicians receive the most relevant and inspiring training to give them the skills to pursue, if they wish, a career in the music industry. SYO provides the opportunity to extend beyond individual lessons to work as a member of an ensemble of talented and dedicated musicians under a top-level teaching conductor. In SYO you will receive excellent orchestral training. You will develop social, creative and communication skills. You will improve as a player and as a musician.

SYO musicians participate in weekly rehearsals, with leading conductors including Max McBride, Brian Buggy, John Ockwell, James Pensini, Nicholas Tester, Heloise Pyne, Jenny Compton, Joanne Waples, Maggie Ferguson and members of Synergy. In addition, they attend regular tutorials with leading musicians from Sydney’s professional orchestras and prominent instrumental teachers, guiding them on their development of ensemble skills and stylistic playing.

As we prepare to celebrate our 40th birthday in 2013, our alumni are placed in all the professional orchestras and key chamber ensembles in Australia and overseas. It is clear that this weekly foundation of professional training is an important springboard for serious young musicians. Further to that, SYO is a wonderful community for young musicians, providing a gathering of like-minded souls, leading to life-long friendships and associations.

When you join the Sydney Youth Orchestras you are joining an organisation which has the power to change lives - your life as a musician and the lives of the people who listen to you make music.

In the short space of forty years, SYO has become an essential part of the cultural fabric of Australia and an integral part of Australia’s musical life. Many of the players who now play in orchestras around Australia began their musical lives as members of the SYO team.

Richard Gill OAM, Music educator and former SYO conductor

AUDITIONS 2013

2

SENIOR PROGRAM

SYDNEY YOUTH ORCHESTRA

SYO PHILHARMONIC

PETER SEYMOUR ORCHESTRA

SYMPHONIC WIND ORCHESTRA

TANGOOZ

SENIOR PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE

JUNIOR PROGRAM

SINFONIETTA

CHAMBER STRINGS

CAMERATA

SPEER ORCHESTRA

JUNIOR PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE

applyonl inewww.syo .com .au

2


3


3

APPLY ONLINE WWW.SYO.COM.AU

4

With eleven orchestras and ensembles, each musician will be matched to the right group for their level of skill, experience and age.

Connecting all ensembles is the Orchestral Training Framework, a comprehensive system ensuring that students progress through the orchestras, developing individual and ensemble skills under the careful guidance of SYO’s artistic staff.

Outstanding artistic staff

SYO conductors are experienced educators, inspiring their musicians in weekly rehearsals. They are drawn from the leading orchestral education programs across the sector, and foster strong connections with their orchestra members.

A comprehensive training system

Furthermore, a team of SYO tutors work with each orchestra several times each term, providing small group mentoring and specialist instrumental guidance.

These tutors are drawn from professional ensembles such as the Sydney Symphony, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra, and freelance professionals. They get to know our young players, and our program goals, and develop wonderful mentoring relationships. Many are also alumni of the SYO program, and all bring dedication and enthusiasm to their work with our young musicians.

Sydney Youth Orchestra gave me a true feeling of what it would be like to be a professional musician. Outside SYO, you’d be lucky to come across other musicians equally switched on and driven to perform at such high standards. The sheer concentration of top musicians at SYO is what spurs us all on - without this concentration of high calibre young players, there’s no way our professional orchestras could maintain their own high standards and local flavour.

SYO’s program is essential because it is practical and helps musicians understand what it is to make music. It is a comprehensive program, which teaches skills that can only be learnt in practice.

Alex Henery, Sydney Symphony Principal Double Bass, SYO alumni and current SYO tutor.


5

SYO Concert Series

Showcasing the energy and enthusiasm of the Sydney Youth Orchestra, our flagship orchestra, these high-profile concerts are held in Sydney’s major performance venues.

Family Concerts

These provide warm and friendly performance opportunities for all orchestras at a range of venues throughout Sydney, demonstrating each orchestra’s achievements at the end of the school term.

Toddlers Proms

Toddlers Proms introduce young audiences to the instruments, sounds and sections of an orchestra, and provide the SYO Philharmonic and Peter Seymour Orchestra with performance experience in front of an enthusiastic and responsive audience.

Special Events

SYO orchestras are invited to participate in a range of public events, including Carols in the Domain, festivals at Darling Harbour and The Rocks, Australia Day concerts, Sydney Festival, outer metropolitan music societies, collaborations with arts organisations and other opportunities as they arise.

Touring

SYO Senior Orchestras tour regional NSW annually. This is a wonderful opportunity to build performance skills in the intensive touring environment, develop ensemble, share music with new audiences and other young musicians in regional areas, and have fun with wonderful friends.

Camps

The SYO Philharmonic, Peter Seymour Orchestra, and Symphonic Wind Orchestra attend a residential music camp from 22-24 February 2013.

TangoOz and Junior String orchestras undertake a non-residential weekend camp from 9-10 March 2013.

Attendance at the SYO music camps is compulsory for all members.

O U R C O N C E R T S S H O W C A S E Y O U R T A L E N T S

I recall with fond and intense memories my time at the SYO. The SYO Chamber Orchestra gave me a deep and life-long love for performing in a chamber orchestra. The teachers and conductors I had at SYO all played significant roles in my life as a musician.

Richard Tognetti, Artistic Director Australian Chamber Orchestra & SYO alumnus

AUDITIONS 2013

66



7

Senior Orchestras

The Senior Orchestral program consists of large ensembles specifically designed to allow emerging musicians to experience core orchestral repertoire, through a range of performance styles and compositional periods. This is achieved through weekly 3-4 hour rehearsals and tutorials with leading professional orchestral musicians, many of whom are also alumni from SYO.

The Senior Orchestras present performances in high level venues, attend an inspiring residential camp at the start of the year, tour to regional NSW annually, and play exciting large scale orchestral works, while making wonderful friends in a supportive, non-competitive environment.

Sydney Youth Orchestra

As the flagship ensemble of the SYO family, the Sydney Youth Orchestra is where NSW’s most talented young musicians - those who aspire to the highest level of orchestral performance and a future in the music industry - are to be found.

Led by acclaimed conductor and SYO artistic director Max McBride, the SYO program provides outstanding and innovative training and performance activities that lead to the continued development of musicians’ technical and artistic excellence. Programs are broad-ranging, including chamber music, orchestral music from the Classical, Romantic and Contemporary traditions, as well as new works by Australian composers. Repertoire for the 2013 SYO in Concert Series has been selected to include works from key SYO performances, as we celebrate our 40th birthday.

Performers from the SSO, ACO & AOBO will continue to tutor each section of the

orchestra, an association which allows members further exposure to the professional music industry.

In 2013, SYO will present four subscription concerts in leading venues, tour to the Arts in the Valley Festival in the Kangaroo Valley and Canberra, perform and participate in workshops for the Sydney Opera House The Composers: Arvo Pärt residency project, and have the opportunity to participate in high profile public events, such as Carols in the Domain Australia Day events, and collaborations with arts companies.

Principal Chairs in 2013 are supported for Concertmaster, oboe, cello, clarinet. These positions include mentoring with leading professionals, and a 50% reduction on membership fee.

All strings, wind, brass and percussion: musicians aged up to 25 years, AMEB Grade 8 minimum.

SYO Philharmonic

The SYO Philharmonic is the organisation’s second most senior ensemble, a full symphony orchestra led by acclaimed Australian conductor, composer and educator, Brian Buggy OAM.

In the Philharmonic you learn orchestral technique and ensemble skills while playing great works of the 19th and 20th century. The Philharmonic presents a number of public performances each year, a tour to regional NSW, senior music camp, and Toddlers Proms concerts which allow you to share the experience of music with young children and their parents.

The SYO Philharmonic is a full scale symphony orchestra of over 80 young musicians, comprised of 54 strings, plus harp, double woodwind, full brass, horns and percussion.

All strings, wind, brass and percussion: musicians aged from 14-20 years, AMEB Grade 6 minimum.

ORCHESTRASsen ior


8

Peter Seymour Orchestra

The Peter Seymour Orchestra, named after the founder of the Sydney Youth Orchestra Association, is where many of you will first embark upon significant orchestral repertoire.

Under the leadership of the inspiring John Ockwell, you will have the opportunity to learn the foundations of orchestral training – instrumental technique, ensemble skills, understanding of style and symphonic form, sight reading, listening and communication skills. With classical and early romantic repertoire, the PSO is an ideal training ground for a young orchestral musician.

String players’ bowing technique is constantly refined, and wind players’ become soloists as their parts are not doubled.

Strings, wind and horn, AMEB grade 6 minimum.

Symphonic Wind Orchestra

Founded in 2005, the Symphonic Wind Orchestra focuses on the development of ensemble and preformance skills, allowing a large number of talented wind, brass and percussion players to broaden their repertoire knowledge under the leadership of SYO alumni and respected music educator, James Pensini.

Covering a diverse range of repertoire from popular 20th Century film scores, jazz classics through to core orchestral repertoire, the SWO gives players of non-core orchestral wind, brass and percussion instruments an invaluable opportunity to join the SYO family and experience the excitement of playing in a large ensemble.

All wind, brass and percussion instruments, approximately AMEB Grade 5-AMusA.

Which Orchestra is right for me?

With eleven orchestras and ensembles in the SYO family, it is necessary to audition, so that you are placed in the right orchestra. For existing SYO members, talk with your conductor if you are unsure which group you should apply for.

For new applicants, refer to the orchestra descriptions by following the links below, and feel free to ring us on 02 9251 2422 to discuss.

Auditions Seminar Day

Auditions are an important part of playing an orchestral instrument, and it is our goal for these auditions to be a positive experience. On Saturday 18 September, current and prospective members are invited to attend a seminar for the orchestra for which you will audition. Led by each group’s conductor, this is a great opportunity to hear about what the audition

2013 Orchestras & Ensembles:

JUNIOR STRINGS

SPEER

CAMERATA

CHAMBER STRINGS

SINFONIETTA SENIOR ENSEMBLES

SYMPHONIC WIND ORCHESTRA

PETER SEYMOUR ORCHESTRA

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLES

TANGOOZ

SYO PHILHARMONIC

SYDNEY YOUTH ORCHESTRA

PERCUSSION ENSEMBLES

JUNIOR PERCUSSION

SENIOR PERCUSSION

panels are looking for, and how to prepare for your audition so you feel confident and well prepared. Full details of the schedule for the Audition Seminar Day will be sent to you with your application confirmation.


9

Speer Orchestra

The Speer Orchestra is a very special group where many young players gain their first ensemble experience. For many children who have been learning by themselves, it can be a lonely experience. The Speer Orchestra under the leadership of Joanne Waples gives them an invaluable opportunity to play with other like-minded children and form friendships.

First position playing in keys of up to 2 sharps and 1 flat.

Camerata

The Camerata builds on the foundation of ensemble playing developed in the Speer Orchestra with more focus on developing skills required to sight read and play repertoire with more complex rhythms and keys alongside awareness of style and expression. Conducting the Camerata is experienced string player, conductor and teacher, Heloise Pyne.

First position playing in keys of up to 3 sharps and 2 flats.

Chamber Strings

The Chamber Strings, led by Jenny Compton, offers intermediate players the chance to further develop their ensemble playing while extending their technical and aural skills. Young musicians can develop enthusiasm for performance, whilst discovering an exciting and engaging range of more challenging repertoire.

First to third position in major and minor keys of 3 flats to 4 sharps.

Sinfonietta

The Sinfonietta is the advanced string ensemble in the Junior Program that is the springboard to the Peter Seymour Orchestra. Led by Nicholas Tester, players receive invaluable opportunities to explore challenging string orchestral repertoire (from Barber to Purcell) and to refine their ensemble skills.

A very high standard in first to fifth positions in major and minor keys of 4 flats to 5 sharps.

STR INGSJUN IOR

Are you an enthusiastic violin, viola, cello or double bass player? Do you want to learn new skills, create beautiful music surrounded by enthusiastic fun musicians like yourself?

If your answer is yes, then the SYO Junior Strings program is for you! SYO Junior Strings offers fun, motivated and highly skilled conductors who work with you every week, combined with regular sectional tutorials taken by professional string players, as well as many concerts, an annual non-residential music camp and so much more.

With a structured program and great music, the Junior Strings program offers a place to hone ensemble skills, sight reading, aural awareness as well as general string technique, all presented in a fun environment. Young musicians from Year 2 to Year 10 are welcome in the Junior Strings program – you will be placed in the ensemble to which you are most suited.

AUDITIONS 2013

1010



11

7 SEPTEMBER 2012 APPLICATIONS CLOSE 15 SEPTEMBER 2012 AUDITIONS SEMINAR ALL WELCOME

3 DECEMBER 2012 RESULTS RELEASED

18 JANUARY 2013FINAL DATE FOR ACCEPTING OFFERS

2 FEBRUARY 2013 REHEARSALS COMMENCE

KEYDATES

13 OCTOBER 14 OCTOBER 20 OCTOBER21 OCTOBER27 OCTOBER28 OCTOBER

Mid November late auditions

AUDITION DATES 2012

2013 KEY DATES

11

TERM ONE 2 FEBRUARY-7 APRIL

TERM TWO4 MAY-22 JUNE

TERM THREE20 JULY-14 SEPTEMBER

TERM FOUR 12 OCTOBER-7 DECEMBER *With the exception of Sydney Youth Orchestras flagship.


12

Commitment

With over 600 people auditioning for 425 places each year, it is a significant achievement to be offered a position in an SYO orchestra. Successful auditionees must commit to their orchestra for the whole year. Members are occasionally required to participate in extra rehearsals or workshops outside scheduled rehearsal times.

Rehearsal Schedule

Rehearsals for all groups occur weekly during school term, with the exception of the flagship orchestra, Sydney Youth Orchestra. Tutorials are generally held within regular rehearsal times for each ensemble.

SYO Philharmonic 1.15pm-4.00pm

Peter Seymour Orchestra 1.30pm-4.00pm

Symphonic Wind Orchestra 10.00am-1.00pm

Sinfonietta 1.30pm-4.00pm

Chamber Strings 1.30pm-4.00pm

Camerata 10.00am-1.00pm

Speer Orchestra 10.00am-1.00pm

Sunday

Sydney Youth Orchestra flagship ensemble rehearses weekly, at International Grammar School in Ultimo, or St Mary’s Chapter Hall. Tutti rehearsals are from 1.00-4.00pm, and tutorials scheduled regularly from 9.00am-12.00pm.

Monday

Sydney Conservatorium of Music:

TangoOz 4.30pm-6.30pm

Synergy rehearsal studio, 109 Sydenham Road, Marrickville:

Junior Percussion 5.30pm-7.00pm

Senior Percussion 7.00pm-8.30pm

Times and venues may be subject to change.

Saturday

St Mary’s Chapter Hall & PCYC Woolloomooloo:

Applicants Must Be:

Amateur players aged 24 years or younger on 31 December 2012 regularly studying with a professional instrumental teacher.

Audition Requirements:

Every new applicant or existing SYO member must audition.

You are required to perform a prepared piece, orchestral excerpts, and sight reading. Full details will be sent to you upon application. Auditions will be 5-7 minutes in length.

A non-refundable audition fee of $49 is payable with your application. If you wish to audition on multiple instruments, separate applications and audition fees apply for each audition.Renewed enrolment is based on the audition, combined with your conductor’s

appraisal, including skill and commitment.

Placements are considered carefully by the audition panel in the context of the standard of all auditionees, and the needs of the individual player.

Most SYO orchestras have an expectation of a minimum of two years membership before progressing to the next orchestra.

Late Auditions

Late auditions will be scheduled in mid November for students unable to attend the October session for HSC or other compulsory commitments.

Please indicate on your application if you wish to request a late audition, and provide a brief explanation.

Membership & camp fees

The SYO fee structure is very competitive with an average cost of approximately $8.50/Hour per rehearsal. Payment of membership fees and applicable camp fees is required upon accepting a place in Sydney Youth Orchestras, and must be confirmed before rehearsals commence. Instalment payments may be easily set up on request.

Standard membership $990Tertiary discount -$1002nd family members(s) -$100These fees incorporate a compulsory annual association fee of $20.

Senior music camp (SWO, PSO & SYOP) $260TangoOz & junior music camp $190 (TangoOz, Speer, Camerata, Chamber Strings, Sinfonietta) Fees for tours are in addition to the fees listed above. Membership fees are non-refundable.

*

13



14

PATRON HER EXCELLENCYPROFESSOR MARIE BASHIR AC CVO GOVERNOR OF NEW SOUTH WALES

ARTISTIC PATRON REV. DR ARTHUR BRIDGE OAM AM

SYDNEY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS MANAGEMENTGENERAL MANAGERBERNIE HEARD

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR MAX MCBRIDE BUSINESS MANAGERSUSAN HART

MANAGER ARTISTIC OPERATIONSROSALIND HORTON

HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT GUY ELRON

OPERATIONS COORDINATORHELEN CHO

MARKETING COORDINATOR SARAH STAPLETON

ADMINSTRATION ASSISTANT ADAM GREAVES

GEEK IN RESIDENCE LYNNE SANDERSON

ARCHIVISTGAIL PRYOR

PHOTOGRAPHY PRODUCED BY DAWNE FAHEY, FIER INSITITUTE

SYDNEY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS 182 CUMBERLAND STREET,THE ROCKS NSW 2000

PH +612 9251 2422FAX +612 9251 2744EMAIL [email protected] WWW.SYO.COM.AUABN 63 886 284 698

The Sydney Youth Orchestras office is open from 9.00am – 5.30pm Monday – Friday.

THE GREATOREX FOUNDATION

Documents

2013 SYO Auditions Brochure