Additional Information for Winds, Brass, and Percussion

Orchestra and Wind Symphony auditions are held concurrently and use the same audition excerpts for winds, brass, and percussion players. String players can skip this section.

Following are instructions, signup forms, and required musical excerpts.

• If you wish to be considered only for the orchestras (CSO and CCO), register below and prepare the following excerpts.

• If you wish to be considered only for the Wind Symphony, register on their website and prepare the same excerpts.

• If you wish to be considered for either or both ensembles or do not have an ensemble preference, register here or the Wind Symphony site—we’ll take care of the rest.

There is no dress code for auditions. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for your audition, and please don’t stress about it. We strive to make auditions simple, straightforward, and, hopefully, fun! Simply do your best.

For students with extenuating circumstances or needs for accommodation should contact Professor James Spinazzola.

Step 3: Preparing for the Audition

🌟 Excerpts are currently available for all instruments!

Requirements

Strings

All details can be found in the document entitled "String Audition Instructions" in the section below.

Woodwinds and Brass

Audition FAQs

How will auditions be held in light of COVID-19?

All auditions will be held in Lincoln Hall B20. It is a large rehearsal room, and there will be ample distance between players and panelists. As of June 2022, there are no additional masking or distancing requirements. Please check back before your audition.

What will the Cornell Orchestras be judging in my audition?

Judges WILL consider:

• Rhythmic accuracy

• Rhythmic stability (steady tempo)

• Intonation (playing in-tune with yourself)

• Tone quality

• Dynamic contrast

• Instrument-specific technique

• Musicality, expression, and phrasing

• Appropriateness of repertoire for your technical level

• Ability to recover if you make a mistake

• Careful preparation of all audition music

Judges WILL NOT consider:

• Race/ethnicity

• Gender/gender presentation

• If you have a private teacher or who your teacher is

• Other auditions you've taken or groups you've played with

• How fancy/expensive your instrument is

Should I memorize the music?

Memorization is not required. If you would like to memorize your solos, you are welcome to do so.

What should I wear?

Wear nice dress clothes that are comfortable for you to perform in. Remember that this is the first impression you will make on those who will evaluate you. It is also a good idea to practice in the clothes you are planning to wear at least once before your audition.

When will I find out if I have been accepted?

All audition results will be announced by via email and will be posted in this website. All auditioning students will be contacted regardless of the outcome.

What are the requirements for membership?

Cornell affiliation and a love of music are all that is required. All students, staff, and faculty are welcome in our community of music makers.

Where can I warm up/practice?

B21 in Lincoln Hall has historically been offered as an audition warm up room. You may also use any of the practice rooms available in Lincoln Hall on a first-come, first-served basis. You can find maps of the practice rooms inside Lincoln Hall.

Any other questions?

If you have other questions not covered here, please email a member of the orchestra board.