Spring Auditions for Prep Large Ensembles

2021 Auditions

Each Spring, NEC Prep holds auditions for large ensemble entrance to and advancement within the program for the following school year. This year, NEC Prep will be reviewing all large ensemble auditions via video in our application system, Embark. The Embark application will be available online in mid-March 2021. If you submitted an application/audition for the large ensembles last year, you do not need to create a new account. The application and audition video deadline will be May 14, 2021. 

Start your Spring Ensemble Application Here!

Video Audition Requirements 

  • If you submitted a large ensemble application, spring private lesson evaluation, or fall placement form in the last year, it is not necessary to create a new account. 
  • Video recordings of audition materials will be submitted online through the Embark application, which will be available online in mid-March, 2021. Physical CDs, DVDs, tapes, emailed files, and YouTube links are not accepted as audition files. 
  • The recording should be in one of the following video file types: MPEG, MPG, MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, or VOB.
  • Record the video of your scales in one continuous video. You are welcome to pause or breathe between each scale. Do not edit the video. 
  • Each contrasting solo should be recorded in separate videos. You may upload the solos in whichever order you choose.
  • When you are presenting the orchestra excerpts, please record in one continuous take. Please prepare the excerpts, in the order listed, that most closely match your level of playing based on recommendation from your teacher. It is not required to complete all excerpts; however, all excerpts are required if completing the entire list. You are welcome to pause or breathe between your selections. Do not edit the video. 
  • Your face, hands, instrument, and bow stroke should remain in the frame for the duration of the video. If you are using a music stand, please be sure that it is not blocking the frame. Please use proper lighting.    
  • Instrumentalists: Audition videos with accompaniment will not be accepted. Please submit unaccompanied audition material.
  • If you have questions on how to submit a video audition, please be in touch with our office.    

Download our Video Audition Guidelines

Audition Repertoire

Audition repertoire can vary by instrument and audition type. For audition repertoire requirements, please visit the Spring Audition Requirements page.

Large Ensemble Spring Audition FAQ
 

How do I schedule an audition?

New this year, NEC Prep will be reviewing all large ensemble auditions via video. The deadline to submit your application and video recording is May 14, 2021. All applicants, including returning students, will need to create a new account in the Embark system. 

 

I'm currently enrolled in one of the large ensembles. Do I need to re-audition?

Orchestra

If you would like to be considered for a higher level orchestra, you must take a spring audition. If you would like to stay in the same ensemble, you do not need to take an audition. Please note: If you would like to be considered for YPO, YS, YRO, or JRO, please be sure to submit the orchestral excerpts

Wind Ensemble

If you would like to be considered for a higher level wind ensemble (and you meet the age requirements), you must take a spring audition. If you would like to stay in the same ensemble, you do not need to take an audition. 

Chorus

We are in the midst of creating plans for the Chorus program for the 2021-2022 season. If you would like to stay up-to-date on the Prep Chorus offerings, please complete the Chorus Interest Form.

Baroque

If you would like to be considered for a higher level ensemble, you must take a spring audition. If you would like to stay in the same ensemble, you do not need to take an audition.

Youth Jazz Orchestra

Current YJO students (2020--2021 year) do not need to take an audition. 

 

I have more than one child who would like to audition. Do I have to create separate applications for each of them?

Yes. A separate application must be submitted for each child. You may use the same email address for multiple applications. 

 

How much does it cost to audition for large ensembles?

There is an annual non-refundable $40 audition fee per student to audition for our large ensembles. Once this fee is paid, you can audition for as many different types of groups as you would like. Payments can be made online via the Embark application. Checks should be written out to "New England Conservatory" and can be mailed to NEC Prep Auditions, 290 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115.

 

What if I don’t know my audition pieces yet?

If you are unsure about what you will play in your audition, don’t worry! We suggest writing “TBD” or “Undecided” in the blanks. Then, once you know what you will perform, log back into your audition account and fill in the correct composer names and piece titles. If you have trouble, you can submit your audition repertoire to prep@necmusic.edu.

 

Which pieces am I supposed to prepare for the audition?

Spring audition repertoire requirements can be found by clicking here.

 

What are the tuition rates for the large ensembles?

Our tuition and fees for the current academic year can be found here.

 

After I audition, when will I find out about my audition placement?

Audition results will be released via email (to all student and parent email addresses associated with the student's account) in June, 2021.

Download our FAQ