Auditions for the 2023-2024 Season will be accepted April 1-July 15, 2023

Late audition windows are Oct 1-15, 2023 and January 15-31, 2024
Click here to access the application during the listed windows
**Preview of application questions coming soon

Application fee is $10 for returning members and $30 for new members until June 30 2023.

July 1-15, 2023 fees are $20 for returning members and $40 for new members.

Audition FAQ
Audition Requirements 
Video Audition Standards and Instructions

Membership in the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra
Acceptance is by audition only. Auditions are submitted via video. Existing members must re-audition each season. See audition application for instructions. Memorization is NOT required. Auditions should be played without accompaniment. If you have extenuating circumstances that necessitate an in-person audition, please reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss options. Preview of application questions coming soon.

Is there an age requirement for participation in IYO?
There is no minimum age, however most students are ages 8-18. Our youngest string students should be at or about the level of Suzuki book 3 and be able to sit through a one and a half hour rehearsal. 

Are all instruments accepted for participation in IYO?
Concert Orchestra is a string-only ensemble with a maximum age of 8^th grade.
Philharmonic Orchestra is an intermediate ensemble of strings, winds, and brass.
Symphony Orchestra is a full symphony orchestra.
Harp students are welcome to audition. Harps are accepted in Symphony Orchestra only.
We do not accept saxophone or piano auditions, however these students are welcome to compete in our Young Artist Competition in January.

What should a student prepare for his or her IYO audition?
Scales, an etude, and a solo excerpt are required at auditions. Detailed requirements for each orchestra level are outlined here: Audition Requirements

Where do IYO auditions take place?
Auditions are submitted via video. See audition application for instructions. Memorization is NOT required. Auditions should be played without accompaniment. Preview of application questions is available here. If you have extenuating circumstances that necessitate an in-person audition, please reach out to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss options.

When and where do IYO rehearsals take place?
Rehearsals take place from the 3rd weekend of August to May (Mother's Day) on Sunday afternoons between the hours of 1:00-4:00, typically at Butler University or the Indianapolis Opera.

We support school music and other organizations and know that from time to time absences are unavoidable, but we do expect your attendance each and every Sunday for rehearsal.  Please take this into consideration before applying.

Where does the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra perform?
Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestras perform 3 concerts each year at Hilbert Circle Theatre, typically in November, February, and May-Mother's Day. Concert Orchestra joins the other ensembles for the February and May concerts and performs one other stand-alone concert, typically in late October/early November. 

How much does participation in Indianapolis Youth Orchestra cost
Tuition ranges from $450-$700 per season, depending on your orchestra placement. Payment plans and Tuition Assistance are available.

Are there other expectations of IYO participants?
Students are expected to study their instrument privately with a teacher and to participate in their school music ensemble if there is one.

When will students receive audition results?
ALL applicants will be notified via email.  Please do not contact us regarding your completed audition until after August 7. All placements are final.

For any other questions, please contact the IYO office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.