Festival Orchestra Auditions

Audition for Hoff-Barthelson Music School’s Festival Orchestra and Be Part of One of the Finest High School Orchestras in the United States

Merit Scholarships available for bass, oboe, bassoon, horn and trumpet students

 Hoff-Barthelson Music School, renowned for its commitment to musical excellence, is excited to announce auditions for the second half of the HBMS Festival Orchestra’s 2023-24 season. Auditions for oboe, bassoon, horn, trumpet, percussion, and strings will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, from 7-10 pm at the School, 25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY. This exceptional opportunity invites high school students and exceptionally talented younger musicians to join one of the finest orchestras in the United States.

The HBMS Festival Orchestra is a prestigious, full symphonic ensemble that caters to high school students possessing the highest level of technical ability and musical artistry. Under the direction of the renowned conductor, Jun Nakabayashi, the Festival Orchestra consistently delivers extraordinary performances at three concerts annually. Two of these concerts feature guest artists of international stature, making it a unique experience for the young musicians.

In addition to the regular rehearsals and performances, members of the Festival Orchestra benefit from sectional coachings with esteemed members of the New York Philharmonic each spring, further enhancing their musical skills and expertise.

Merit scholarships are available to students who play bass, oboe, bassoon, horn or trumpet and demonstrate the highest level of technical ability and musical artistry during their audition. Additionally, Hoff-Barthelson Music School welcomes need-based financial aid applications from students with household incomes of up to 450% of New York State’s 2022-23 Reduced Price Lunch Eligibility levels.

Auditions are open to all high school students, whether they are currently studying at HBMS or elsewhere. Remarkably talented and mature musicians who are not yet in high school are also encouraged to audition.

“Joining the HBMS Festival Orchestra is an extraordinary opportunity for young musicians to be a part of something truly exceptional. It is a chance to perform alongside like-minded peers, learn from world-class musicians, and showcase your talents,” said Conductor Jun Nakabayashi.

The Orchestra meets for rehearsals on Tuesday evenings from 7:15 to 9:30 pm, providing an ideal schedule for dedicated young musicians to pursue their passion while balancing their academic responsibilities.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School’s Festival Orchestra is the perfect platform for young musicians to push the boundaries of their abilities, collaborate with renowned artists, and be a part of one of the most prestigious high school orchestras in the United States. Don’t miss this opportunity to shine and take your musical journey to the next level.

For information about audition requirements and to reserve an audition time, visit https://hbms.org/wp-content/uploads/Festival-Orchestra-December-2023-Auditions.pdf  or contact the Orchestra’s Manager, Mark Kushnir at festivalorchestra@hbms.org.

About Hoff-Barthelson Music School
Hoff-Barthelson Music School is nationally recognized as a leading community music institution, celebrated for its exceptional contributions to education, performance, and community engagement. The school boasts a faculty comprising the most accomplished teachers and performers in the region, making it a cherished cultural gem in Westchester County.

Hoff-Barthelson is committed to creating a warm and inviting environment, fostering the highest educational standards, and actively engaging in community service. The School’s dedication to these core values ensures that students of all ages, abilities, and interests experience a nurturing and joyful atmosphere, emphasizing holistic growth, outstanding teaching, and a comprehensive curriculum.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School is proud to be a grantee of ArtsWestchester with funding made possible by Westchester County government with the support of County Executive George Latimer. Programs are made possible, in part, with support from the New York State Council on the Arts.