MARYLAND CLASSIC YOUTH ORCHESTRAS Preparatory Strings

Elizabeth Peterson & Seth Castleton, conductor

The MCYO Preparatory Strings is conducted by Maestro Elizabeth Peterson and Seth Castleton, with the help of string specialists. Preparatory Strings is a full string orchestra for young string players in grades 3 to 6.

The professional coaches teach, train, and develop each section at each rehearsal and also perform with the group.

Preparatory Strings will focus on fundamental ensemble and orchestral performance training for students to help them prepare for the next level MCYO ensembles.

Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 5:00 – 6:20pm at the Music Center at Strathmore

Audition Requirements

Grades in School:
Strings ONLY: 3–6th Grade

Minimum Solo Level (MMEA grade level):
Difficulty grade level 3 and higher
(Students should select a solo that best showcases their playing level)

Musicians are required to learn the entire solo and will be asked to play a 3-5 minute excerpt from their solo. Solos must be played without piano accompaniment. Memorization of solos and excerpts is not required.

No Sight Reading is required for Preparatory Strings.

Download the Orchestral Excerpts Here.
*Some excerpts may be multiple pages.

Scales/Arpeggios must be memorized.
Musicians must play tonic scale and arpeggio.
Tempo, articulation, and style of the scale should reflect the ability of the musician. (Please refer to musician’s private teacher for advice.)
All scales/arpeggios are to be played ascending and descending.

Violin:
Major scales: ONE two-octave scales of their choice
Melodic minor scales: ONE two-octave scales of their choice

Viola:
Major scales: ONE two-octave scales of their choice
Melodic minor scales: 2 octaves / G

Cello:
Major scales: ONE two-octave scales of their choice
Melodic minor scales: ONE two-octave scales of their choice

Bass:
Major scales: 1 or 2-octave scale of their choice
Melodic minor scales: 1 or 2-octave scale of their choice