Ready to audition?
Review the materials for your instrument and level, then submit your Round 1 video through the official form. For dates, preparation questions or callback information, contact auditions@elsistematexas.org.
Auditions
2026 - 2027
Orchestral auditions and placement for children and young musicians across Greater Houston. Rooted in West Houston, El Sistema Texas helps each musician find the ensemble where they can grow, contribute and succeed.
Round 1: video submission. Round 2: live callback only if invited.
Orchestral Program
How the audition process works
- Prepare your level and instrument. Review the official 2026–2027 materials: scales or technique, a solo or etude, and the assigned excerpts.
- Submit Round 1 by video. Upload the recording to a shareable service, check that the link opens, and paste it into the official video audition form. Do not email video files directly.
- Attend a callback only if invited. A live Round 2 audition is used when the panel needs more information. It is not required for every applicant.
- Receive your placement. The panel reviews the complete audition, musical readiness and ensemble instrumentation needs.
New to music? Preparatory placement is developmental: a short piece or exercise and a simple scale or note pattern, with no required orchestral excerpt. Ask our team which starting point fits the student.
Questions: auditions@elsistematexas.org. Confirm current dates and availability with the auditions team.
Our orchestral pathway: Preparatory → Overture → Symphony → Philharmonic. Chamber Orchestra is a select advanced string ensemble that complements Philharmonic placement.
Current orchestra students are evaluated again for each new season. A previous placement does not automatically guarantee the same ensemble for the next cycle. Placement is based on the whole audition, readiness and instrumentation needs; no single excerpt or exercise determines the result.
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