What is the age requirement?
To apply, you must be up to 26 years old.
Can I audition with more than one instrument?
Yes, you can audition for many instruments. Please state this in your application.
The cost of participation in the educational programme of the youth symphony orchestra The Underground Youth Orchestra ειναι zero.
We strongly recommend that you read the operating rules of the orchestra before completing your application for audition.
The rehearsals of the UYO take place every Saturday or Sunday , 17.00 - 20.00 , at the Athens Concert Hall, at Rehearsal Hall 12
Candidates will be tested on a piece of their choice (Solo or Concerto part) and the following orchestral excerpts (the orchestral part is in brackets). HERE .
No. Memorization is not necessary. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible during your audition session.
α) In person Audition : If you need a companion for the piece of your choice, you must arrange for him/her to be present at the time of the audition at your own expense.
For the compulsory orchestral piece you dont need an escort.
β) Prerecorded Audition Video : Όχι. Παρόλο που καταλαβαίνουμε ότι η σόλο δουλειά σας περιλαμβάνει πιθανότατα ένα μέρος συνοδείας, θέλουμε απλώς να σας ακούσουμε χωρίς συνοδεία.
What if I'm late?
If you are late, please inform the contact person in charge of your audition immediately. You will receive all contact details when your hearing is confirmed.
What if I'm sick and can't attend?
Rescheduling the audition is highly unlikely. However, please let us know as soon as possible if you cannot make it.
Where can I warm up?
The audition venue shall provide a warm-up room. There will be assistance to guide you.
Familiarise yourself with the requirements of the audition and practise each of the elements. We recommend that you warm up before you begin your recording. We also recommend that you record a few takes so that you are familiar with the equipment you are using and feel comfortable and relaxed once you have made the final video.
In the video audition material sent to the UYO, candidates are first asked to briefly introduce themselves and their reasons for wanting to join the UYO. They will then perform the selection piece and instrumental excerpts as listed on the website. Applicants can search for the required works and orchestral excerpts on the Audition Repertoire page.
There are two ways in which you can audition for UYO
A) In person interview at a predetermined day and time at Athens Concert Hall (rehearsal hall 12)
B) By sending a video recording of the hearing ( details in the hearing request form) The UYO strongly prefers the face-to-face interview . If you wish you can email the artistic director & conductor, (uyo@uyo.gr) to learn more about which audition option is best for you!
The UYO teaching team will carefully review and evaluate your hearing. You will be notified of the results of your audition via email after a few days.
What if I am not accepted?
With hundreds of candidates every year, competition is fierce. Don't lose heart, keep practicing and we encourage you to audition again next year.