All string musicians are requested to arrange for music assessments for each Fall Session. Music assessments for Winter Session will be held for new members and previous members wishing to join a different ensemble. Music assessments are not auditions. They are a no stress opportunity for all musicians to:

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• enjoy playing beautiful and challenging music,

• gain more confidence

• improve their skill as a musician

• receive music for the most applicable orchestra/ensemble and section

• begin each session with the best possible experience

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Typically musicians participate in two ensembles. Suggested options are:

• Rising Strings only: Recommended for musicians participating in their first year or two of orchestral playing

• Rising Strings and Sinfonietta Strings: As musicians increase in confidence and skills we recommend that they continue to participate in Rising strings as leaders and begin playing in Sinfonietta Strings

• Sinfonietta Strings and Full Orchestra: Musicians desiring the full orchestral experience are encouraged to play in Full Orchestra and Continue playing in Sinfonietta Strings. 

• Chamber Ensemble and Full Orchestra: Musicians desiring more advanced ensemble experience should audition for Chamber Ensemble and continue playing with the Full Orchestra.

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Music Assessments:

1. Select which groups you wish to participate in.  Play through the scales and excerpts linked to the buttons below to help you decide which ensembles/orchestras will provide the optimal experience for you. These are sample excerpts that provide a level of musical skill and may not be the music played this session.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Prepare the excerpts from one or two groups you choose Please do not  memorize or perfect them. Just play through them

    a couple of times. This is similar to sight reading without the extra pressure!

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3. Choose a favorite piece you are already comfortable with and enjoy playing. Prepare approximately a 1 minute portion of

    your favorite part.

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4. Video the scale, excerpt and your choice piece. You may wish to make individual videos for each portion or you may

    combine them in one video. Make it easy for yourself. Remember to state your name and the name of the selection you    

    are playing in addition to the name of the ensemble you are planning to be in. 

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5. Music assessments will be held via Google Classroom. Click on the link below  which will take you to the Magic Valley Youth

    Orchestra classroom. Click on the "assignment" post and upload your video or videos. If you have problems please contact

    Brenda Allen at 208-308-6667. Please submit your Music assessments before 9:00 pm  on January 6, 2024. This will

    give our team of coaches and conductors a chance to review the video submissions and place musicians in

    the ensemble that will provide the "best fit". Musicians who have not submitted an assessment prior to

    September 5th will be assisted in submitting selections  at registration.
 

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