If you are interested in joining the band for the 2025 /26 season, please complete the form linked below. Here you will find information about the audition pieces we have selected for you to perform. Our audition process requires you to send in a video of you performing these pieces. If you would like to also play a piece of your own choosing please do so, but the submission must include the audition test pieces exerpts. The test pieces are designed to allow you to demonstrate a range of techniques and will help us identify where best to place you within the band!
Unfortunately, we are experiencing some technical issues when submitting the form. If you have submitted an audition and have not heard from us, or the submission does not work, please email Dianne Gray, the band Administrator, ysw@nzcba.org.
Audition Form for 2025/26
The closing date for auditions for the 2025/26 season is Friday 28th February 2025 at 11:59pm.
Eligibility:
All standard concert band instruments are welcome to audition, including woodwind, brass, percussion, and double bass.
Applicants must be between the ages of 14 and 18 as of 31st December 2025. The minimum expected standard is approximately that a level of Grade 7 Trinity (or equivalent).
2025/26 season
Dates:
- Winter event July 2025 (four nights, 30th June – 4th July), Cambridge.
- Summer event January 2026, location tbc.
Cost:
The membership fee for the 2024/25 season will be $500, per programme. The increase is due to reduced available support from funding agencies. This includes accommodation, food during the course, tuition and coaching costs. It also partly helps us cover the cost of chaperones/managers attending the course, venue hire, concert expenses, percussion hire, buses, music, etc.
Musicians are responsible for travel to and from their home and the rehearsal location.
Successful applicants will be notified by email. A deposit of $200 is required upon acceptance of a position. Final payment is due by May 1st 2025. Students with concerns around financing membership should not feel dissuaded to apply. Please let us know if you have any concerns around being able to cover the cost.
The membership fee is non-refundable, however refunds will be considered in extenuating circumstances, and assessed on a case by case basis. If the event itself is affected by government restrictions, e.g. COVID, participants and parents will be duly notified of postponements and/or, in the event of cancellation, refunded.
Our management team are volunteers, so if you or your family members would like to help in any way with the running of the programme, please feel free to let us know.
NZYSW gratefully acknowledges Pub Charity Ltd., Southern Trust Ltd., Bethlehem Coachlines Ltd., as well as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and Christchurch Symphony Orchestra for past sponsorship and support.