Audition for YSDP

YSDP Members laughing

The following is our general procedure in auditioning new and returning members:

  • For the upcoming 2010-2011 season, we plan to hold the spring auditions at:

    • Auditions for returning membership are on May 3-6th, 2011.
    • NEW Musicians playing Strings, Winds, Brass, and Percussion will be auditioned on Saturday - May 7th, 2011.
    • Auditions in the fall are held ONLY for filling special instrumental needs within the orchestra.
    • Symphony membership auditions for Symphony. The purpose of this audition gives Mr. Tham a chance to hear your progress made over the year so he knows where best to place you in next year's section.
    • Preparatory membership auditions for returning to Prep or possibly being moved up to Symphony. Mr. Tham will make that decision after hearing all auditions including perspective new member auditions.

  • Youth Symphony of DuPage welcomes new musicians - advanced grade school through high school level - to audition for our Preparatory and Symphony Orchestras.

  • YSDP auditions and seating for the Preparatory and Symphony Orchestras are competitive. Seating is at the Conductor's discretion.

  • Candidates must be starting 5th grade or older by the Fall of 2011.

  • You should be prepared to audition with a piece 3 to 5 minutes in length that reflects your current level of instrumental achievement.

  • Sight reading may be requested.

  • Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years playing experience on their instrument. Anything less requires a music teachers recommendation.

  • All prospective (new and returning) members must participate in the audition, if you have not done so for this coming season.

  • Please download the Membership Application Form for 2011-2012 (click here).,

  • make a print out (two pages), and fill out and sign the form.

  • Include a non-refundable $25 audition fee in check form only made out to Youth Symphony of DuPage. Put your student's name in the memo portion of the check.

  • If you are a new member, please mail the completed form and the audition fee ($25 in check) to the following address:

      Kimberlie Richter YSDP President
      1762 Fairoak Road
      Naperville, Illinois 60565

  • For questions or to get your audition date/time faster.... please e-mail ysdporchestra@yahoo.com.

  • You will be notified of your audition date, time and location by phone and email.

  • Membership Fees for 2011/2012 year.

    • Preparatory Orchestra: $300.00 annually
    • Symphony Orchestra: $350.00 annually

    Plus $50 for five benefit concert tickets per family.

Mission Statement:
Youth Symphony of DuPage provides advanced ensemble training to educate and challenge young musicians in DuPage county and surrounding communities. YSDP instills within students the desire to achieve an excellent performing experience. It is the mission of YSDP to nurture young musicians and inspire a love of the art and profession of music to last a lifetime.

The Youth Symphony of DuPage is comprised of more than 130 talented young musicians representing thirty plus different communities in DuPage county and other surrounding localities. YSDP has two levels of performance, the Symphony Orchestra for the high school and more advance middle school musician and the Preparatory Orchestra for the growing young artist. YSDP gives three concerts each season all at Wentz Concert Hall on the campus of North Central College. Rehearsals are Monday evenings at 6:15 to 7:15 pm for the Prep and 7:30 to 9:30 pm for the Symphony. Rehearsals are currently held at Naperville Central High School.