SEMYO Auditions 2020-2021
In the interest of the safety and health of our students, SEMYO is now asking students to submit a recorded video of your audition. All currently scheduled live auditions are cancelled. We are committed and available to help students with the process of recording and uploading auditions and you are encouraged to contact us anytime for help. In the event you do not have suitable equipment or internet access please contact Corey Henke at chenke@semyo.org or call 507-696-2023 to arrange for an alternative.
For students currently enrolled in the SEMYO Chamber Strings and Philharmonic orchestras, auditions must be submitted by Monday, June 1. Current Concert Orchestra students are not required to audition.
New students must submit an audition by Wednesday, June 10.
An audition is required to participate in SEMYO. Because SEMYO offers ensembles for all levels of ability, the acceptance rate is very high. Read more about SEMYO’s Program and Ensembles.
Please note that, due to equipment requirements, all percussion auditions will still need to be done in person and will take place in August. We will contact you separately to schedule a time.
Audition Process
To complete your online audition please do the following:
Step 1: (New Students Only): Complete the online application: Click here
Step 2: Download and review the audition requirements for your instrument and determine for which ensemble you are auditioning. Click here
Step 3: Record your audition that must include 2 scales, required excerpt(s) from the audition guidelines, and a 1-2 minute solo of your choice. Students auditioning for Bravura Strings may omit the solo requirement this year.
Step 4: Upload the video to YouTube and set it as ‘unlisted.’
Step 5: Submit the audition to SEMYO using the ‘Audition Video Submission Form’ at the bottom of this page.
Create Your Audition Video
Once you have prepared and practiced your audition to the best of your ability it is time to record your audition. Please review the following recommendations and guidelines to create a successful recording.
Camera
Your audition may be recorded using a smartphone (recommended), tablet, or digital camera. High-quality recording equipment is not required!
Shooting the Video
- Please be sure your full person and instrument are visible so staff can assess your posture and technique. String players please make sure your hands are visible. You may stand or sit.
- Before you begin playing, please state your name and tell us what you are playing.
- If using a smartphone, please use the main camera (not the front-facing selfie camera).
- Do not stand too close the camera as it may distort the sound; however your person should fill up most of the shot.
- Mount the camera on a tripod, rest it on something stable, or have someone hold it. We recommend making a test video ahead of time to check the quality and sound levels.
- Remember the video does not have to be perfect and recording over and over again is discouraged. If you practice the materials and do the best you can, you will make a successful video.
- You are welcome to record each component (scales, excerpts, solo) of the audition separately and there will be a place on the form to submit more then one video. You may also submit one video with the components combined.
- Your audition video will only be visible to SEMYO artistic staff.
This is the correct video placement for string players. When shooting your video be sure we can see your hands and instrument in the shot.
Upload Your Video
Once you have made a satisfactory recording you may upload your audition to YouTube. When you upload your video please include your name in the title and the audition component (scales, excerpts, or solo). For example: SEMYO Audition. Excerpts. Corey Henke. Also, be sure to designate the video as ‘unlisted.’
If you are not familiar with You Tube please use the links below for detailed instructions. If you have difficulty please contact Corey Henke at chenke@semyo.org at anytime.
Instructions for creating a YouTube Account: Click here.
Instructions for Uploading Videos from your phone to You Tube: Click Here
Instructions for Uploading Videos from your computer to You Tube: Click Here
