Youth Ensembles
Audition Information
Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles
Join the Youth Ensembles for the 2026-27 season!
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 2027) 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.
Join the Youth Ensembles for the 2026-27 season!
Auditions will be held in June 2026 (see dates below). Please check this page in April for updated application information and audition requirements. To be added to our email list for 2026-27 audition information, contact us at [email protected].
SAVE THE DATE
May 24: Youth Ensembles Spring Finale Concert
May 26: Priority deadline for applications
June 6 & 7: Auditions for Camerata (beginner) & Philharmonia (intermediate)
June 13 & 14: Auditions for Youth Symphony (advanced)
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.
NOTE: application requirements below are from last season and subject to change. Please check this page in April for updated information.
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.
