Auditions for the 2024-2025 will be held in-person.

When is the best time to audition?

We encourage students to audition in the earlier rounds of auditions, because once positions for each ensemble/instrument (e.g. sax for Concert Jazz Band, violin for Symphony Orchestra, etc.) are filled, accepted students will be placed on a waiting list for that ensemble/instrument.

Where are the auditions held?

All auditions are held at the MYAC Center: 878 Lyster Rd., Highwood, IL 60040.

Are there warm-up rooms available at the MYAC Center?

Yes. We have a number of warm-up rooms available for you.

When should I arrive for my audition?

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your audition time. Please plan ahead for traffic or weather related travel issues.

Should I memorize the music?

You are welcome to memorize your music, but it is not required.

How long is the audition?

The average audition is 20-30 minutes long.

What should I expect in the audition?

Each person will perform for either an ensemble Director or a member of the MYAC audition team. The audition will consist of the performance and a short conversation to learn more about the student, inform the student and family about MYAC policies and student expectations, and to answer any questions. All auditions are taped and will be reviewed at a later date by the audition selection committee.

What should I wear to the audition?

Wear clothes in which you are comfortable performing. Please do not wear concert dress, but you should dress nicely.

When will I find out if I have been accepted?

The audition selection committee listens to all of the audition recordings in mid-May to make ensemble placement decisions. Students will be notified by email by June 1st. If you do not receive any information by June 10, please check your junk folders and then email Jean Milew (jeanmilew@mya.org)

Do any auditions take place in the summer?

After the first round, which ends in May, auditions are only held for positions that have not been filled. These spots will be posted on this page.

What is the tuition to participate in Midwest Young Artists Conservatory?

You can find the tuition rates on the MYAC Tuition page. This is for the 2023-2024 season. Expect slight increases. Tuition for the 2024-2025 season will be posted as soon as it is availalbe.

When and where are rehearsals held?

Rehearsals are held at the MYAC Center at Fort Sheridan (878 Lyster Road, Highwood, IL 60040).

Rehearsal Times for 2023-2024 Season:

Saturdays:

• Reading Orchestra: 12:00 - 1:00pm

• Cadet Orchestra: 11:00am - 12:00pm

• Concertino Orchestra: 9:30 - 11:00am

• Philharmonia Orchestra: 1:00 - 3:00pm

• Concert Orchestra: 9:30am - 11:30am

• Symphony Orchestra: 12:30 - 3:30pm

*Chamber music schedules are determined on a group-by-group basis. Click here to learn more.

Sundays:

• Jazz Ensemble: 10:00 - 11:30am

• Jazz Orchestra: 11:45am - 1:45pm

• Concert Jazz Band: 3:30 - 5:30pm

• Maestros: 1:00 - 1:45pm

• Voices Rising: 1:00 - 3:00pm

• VocalPoint: 3:30 - 5:00pm