Youth Ensembles
Audition Information
Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles
APPLY NOW to join the Youth Ensembles!
Currently accepting mid-year applications
As the only youth orchestra program in the region connected to a professional symphony and a college, The Santa Barbara 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 from 3rd grade up to 12th grade (or up to age 18 in May 2026) 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.
APPLY NOW to join the Youth Ensembles!
New students can audition to join the Youth Ensembles after the fall concerts, according to space in each ensemble:
Camerata Ensemble (beginner): accepting ALL instruments. Particularly seeking oboe, bassoon, french horn, trumpet, trombone, viola, double bass.
Philharmonia Orchestra (intermediate): accepting ALL instruments. Particularly seeking oboe, bassoon, french horn, trombone, viola, cello, double bass.
Youth Symphony (advanced): accepting mid-year applications on a case-by-case basis only. Particularly seeking oboe, bassoon, french horn, percussion, viola, cello, double bass.
We will contact you to schedule your audition after we receive your application.
If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] or 805-898-1417.
SAVE THE DATE
December 7: First rehearsal of the winter term
January 11: Last day of mid-year auditions
March 14: Camerata & Philharmonia winter concert
March 15: Youth Symphony winter concert
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.
