Youth Ensembles
Audition Information
Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles
APPLY NOW to join the Youth Ensembles for the 2025-26 season!
Video auditions accepted over the summer
As the only youth orchestra program in the region connected to a professional symphony and a college, The Symphony’s multi-level Youth Ensembles program provides a fun, supportive environment for young musicians to develop their collaboration and leadership skills while connecting with music and each other.
All three orchestra levels are open to strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Students playing oboe, bassoon, french horn, or low strings (viola, cello, double bass) are particularly encouraged to apply — and ALL orchestral instrumentalists in the 3rd to 12th grades are invited to audition!
Learn more about the program and audition requirements below. Need-based scholarships are available. Admitted musicians will not be turned away due to finances.
If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] or 805-898-1417.
SAVE THE DATE
In-person auditions for the 2025-26 season were held on June 7 & 8. Additional students are welcome to apply over the summer and will receive instructions to submit a video audition.
September 7: First rehearsal & Orientation
November 22-23: Fall concerts
PREPARE FOR YOUR AUDITION
To prepare for your audition, please refer to the details below and practice ALL listed requirements for your instrument and level.
All new and returning students are required to audition each year. Our conductors will place each student in the ensemble that best matches their demonstrated skill level.
