Preparatory String Orchestra

Marta Zurad, Conductor

Preparatory String Orchestra (PSO 8:30 & 10:30) is open to early intermediate string players. Students placed in PSO are comfortable shifting and playing fast passage work and able to play with a solid, confident tone that is generally well in tune. While orchestral assignments are made by level, not age, most members of PSO are in grades 6-8. 

Rehearsals: Saturdays, 8:30-10:00 AM & 10:30 AM-12:00 PM in Pierce Hall

2018-2019 Concert Schedule

Winter Festival
Saturday, December 22, 2018
PSO 8:30 at 12:00 PM and PSO 10:30 at 2:00 PM in Jordan Hall

Spring Festival
Saturday, June 8, 2019
PSO 8:30 at 12:00 PM and PSO 10:30 at 2:00 PM in Jordan Hall

Placement and Seating Audition Information

Auditions for PSO are held in the spring for the following year. Additional audition times may be available in the fall for any remaining openings. 

Seating Audition Sign-up: After gaining admission to the ensemble, all PSO students will take a seating audition during the seating audition weekend, September 6-8, 2018. 

Sign-up for a seating audition

Seating Audition Requirements: PSO 8:30 & 10:30 students should prepare two contrasting solo works or two contrasting movements from the same work and one 3-octave scale. This usually means a fast, technical piece and a slower, more lyrical piece. Students will also be asked to sight-read.

Attendance

Attendance is required at all regularly scheduled classes, rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances. The full attendance policy may be reviewed here.

Still have questions?

Contact Laura Mixter, Large Ensemble Coordinator, by email, or call the NEC Prep hotline at  (617) 585-1160.

During the academic year, PSO members can also contact the PSO Student Manager.