If you are interested in joining the band for the 2025/2026 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. This will allow you to demonstrate a range of techniques and will help us identify where best to place you within the band!
Audition Form for 2025/26 Season
The closing date for auditions for the 2025/26 season is Saturday 30 November 2024 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).
2024/25 season
Dates:
- Winter event July 2024 (four nights), Nelson.
- Summer event January 2025 (four nights), venue tbc.
Cost:
The membership fee for the 2024/25 season will be $650, and covers both the winter and summer courses. 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 2024. 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.