OrchestraBound is a practice audition program that simulates the blind audition process used by professional orchestras. Participants gain hands-on experience in every step of the audition process. It’s designed to improve audition preparation, build confidence, and cultivate awareness of what panels look for in live performance.

Any classical musician preparing for orchestral auditions is welcome. This includes college students, recent graduates, freelancers, teachers, and seasoned professionals alike. The program is open to all aspiring musicians, regardless of age or career stage.

It’s open to both. OrchestraBound was created to support anyone looking to refine their audition skills—whether you’re a current student trying to land your first position or a professional returning to the circuit after time away.

The $200 refunded check is mock only - you won’t actually be charged. But you’ll need to download, fill out and mail the voided check, as if the fee were real. This mental stake raises the pressure just enough to mimic the intensity of a professional audition, without the financial burden.

Yes. The $200 mock check will be refunded upon arrival, consistent with a professional orchestral audition. There will be a voided check for you to download, fill out, and mail. Normally a real check would be mailed.

There will not be a real audition committee. Instead, during each session a blind panel of professional musicians will offer feedback through adjudication sheets. This allows every participant to gain experience playing in a high-stakes environment.

Currently, sessions might take place when available dates are set, if there are enough available participants.

The current locations will be determined soon.

Each session should run approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the number of participants and the instrument roster. Plan to stay the full duration to receive feedback sheets.

Yes. In fact, repeat participation is encouraged. Each session brings new challenges and new repertoire, helping you build consistency and deepen your understanding of the audition process from repeated practice.

Yes. Participants should dress professionally, similar to how you would for a business conference or real audition setting. Dressing the part helps reinforce the seriousness of the environment and prepares you for the real audition.

No. A list of excerpts will be provided along with the application. During the audition, a predetermined set of excerpts will be announced.

Mistakes are part of the process. Panelists will take note, but the focus is on your overall preparation, musicality, and presence. This environment is designed to help you build confidence and learn from your experience, without the career consequences of a real audition.

Bring your instrument and any equipment you would normally use in a professional audition setting, such as your mutes, tuner, rosin, or valve oil. Four fully prepared excerpt binders, containing all instrument packets, will be provided at each session for panelists and intermediaries.

Yes. After the rounds are completed the adjudication sheets will be laid out by number for participants to collect.

No numerical scores or rankings will be assigned. This program prioritizes qualitative feedback and experiential growth over competition. Each participant’s development is personal and supported through reflective commentary, not arbitrary scoring.

All auditions will be recorded using high-quality audio equipment. This ensures consistency across all candidates and creates opportunities for post-session review and reflection.

No. All recordings are strictly for internal use unless you request otherwise. If you'd like a clip shared (e.g., for your portfolio or social media), you may request a copy and give written permission for any public release.

Yes. You may request your recording after the session. The audio files will be shared via private link or download format within a few days. This is a great way to review your playing and measure growth over time.

As with a real audition, the Mock Check will be withheld. While there is no penalty for missing a session, repeated no-shows may incur exclusion from future sessions.