Auditions

The application process has closed.

Entrance to PACO is by audition only; advancement is based on a set of criteria that includes musicality, technical ability, social maturity, and general attitude. Getting the most from your PACO experience requires a considerable investment of time and energy; for this reason, simultaneous membership in other youth orchestras is discouraged. PACO does strongly support each member’s participation in their school’s music program.   

PACO has a relatively small number of openings in its orchestras each year. Every effort is made to place each musician in the orchestra appropriate to his/her level of ability and experience. Due to the orchestras’ intimate size, importance is placed on the student’s social maturity and the ability to interact well in addition to his/her musical ability. When all considerations are equal, continuing members are given priority over new members. 

Many young players join PACO at the SuperStrings level and stay in PACO through high school, advancing through Prep, Debut, Sinfonia, and finally Senior PACO. Openings at all levels do occur, and more experienced players are encouraged to audition for placement into our “Top 3” orchestras (Debut, Sinfonia, and Senior PACO). Attendance at PACO’s annual Chamber Music Workshop in late July/early August is required of new members joining PACO as members of these orchestras.

Applications for the 2025-2026 PACO season will open in early 2025.

 
Boys and girls youth orchestra on stage playing violin viola

What We Are Looking For

For acceptance into the SuperStrings or Preparatory level, we look for many qualities, including:

  • Good intonation and vibrato

  • A positive attitude

  • A desire to play well with others

  • Some exposure to ensemble or orchestral playing is helpful, but not required.

At the audition, we will ask for one 2 or 3 octave scale (your choice) and one prepared piece.

We strongly suggest that you arrange to attend one of our concerts in order to familiarize yourself with our current string playing levels. Please refer to our website for times and locations. You are also welcome to arrange to attend an orchestra rehearsal in order to become more familiar with our program by calling the PACO office at (650) 856-3848 or emailing us at [email protected].