Audition for the Longest-Running Youth Orchestra in America
PYP accepting new auditions in August for their centennial season and offering more financial aid than ever before
Portland Youth Philharmonic (PYP), “perhaps the most exciting orchestra in Oregon” (Oregon ArtsWatch) and the nation’s longest operating youth orchestra, is holding its second and final round of auditions for its historic 100th season (2023 - 2024). The organization has openings for all orchestral instruments, especially winds, brass, and percussion. New this year: FREE to apply! All application fees have been waived.
When a musician successfully passes an audition, PYP will work with them to eliminate any barriers, whether through transportation, instrument rentals, tuition assistance, or any other financial support as needed. Since 1924, PYP has loved music and strived for musical excellence. From Beethoven to Amy Beach to John Williams, PYP loves the way that music makes people feel and how it brings communities together. Young musicians who are excited to take their musicianship to the next level are invited to join PYP and meet friends from all over the region who love music as much as they do!
“Some of my closest and dearest friends have been made through my six years at PYP,” said PYP double bass player Steven Walker. “I wouldn’t have the appreciation and respect for classical music like I do now without PYP. PYP taught me how it feels to be included and to include others in my own life and in the orchestra.”
Every season is filled with one-of-a-kind collaborations, guest artists, and rewarding repertoire. In Season 100, musicians will experience all of that and more! Philharmonic Orchestra musicians will go on an East Coast tour in March 2024. On that tour, they will be joined by the Grammy-nominated Imani Winds, who will also perform with them at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. All our ensembles will have the opportunity to perform world premieres, as well as fan favorites. Our string ensemble will also be collaborating with en Taiko (a music education program that focuses on the art of Taiko - a distinctive form of drumming that has its roots in ancient Japanese culture), on a new composition.
“As a young kid, I always loved the idea of getting to work with others that have the same interest in music as me,” said PYP cellist Pearl Liao. “I’ve been with PYP since 2018 when I joined the string ensemble, and to make it to the 100th season makes everything so worth it,” said PYP cellist Pearl Liao. “Being a part of a group that is completing milestones together and making history is something unforgettable that I think every musician should be able to experience!”
Auditions will take place in person at the PYP office in SW Portland on August 21-25, 2023. Middle school aged musicians and younger are welcome and encouraged to send in their auditions via video. The final video submission deadline is 11:59 PM on Sunday, August 13, 2023.