Join the UP Symphony Orchestras

UPSO Auditions 2025

The University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Windband hold auditions for potential members TWICE a year. Any person who is interested in joining the orchestra or windband should meet these basic requirements:

1. Play a standard orchestral or wind band instrument  (i.e. no piano)
2. Able to play grade 5 level (ABRSM, UNISA or Trinity) music
3. Be able to commit to a full year of membership (February- November)
4. Be a student of the University of Pretoria, or be able to travel to the University for rehearsals easily and without hassle if not a student
5. Must be of the understanding that should you pass your audition and become a member of either ensemble, your commitment to your ensemble is your most important extramural commitment. Because of the nature of a performing ensemble, weekly rehearsals are all compulsory and a high level of commitment is essential.

Audition Requirements

1. Prepare 2 orchestral excerpts that will be provided as per orchestral instrument section below
2. Prepare a piece of your choice, at an acceptable standard
3. Online video submission via Google form. Please follow the audition link to access the form and upload video at the end of the questionnaire

Auditions for 2025 end on 1 November 2024.

Should you be interested in joining either the orchestra or windband, please complete details for auditions below:

Google form application link: 

Download audition excerpts:

For any queries, please contact [email protected]

Uniform Requirements

Upon acceptance into the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Windband, every member is required to wear the following uniform for performances:

1. Formal
   1. Men
      1.  Formal black, polishable shoes
      2.  Long black socks
      3.  Formal black trousers, NO BLACK JEANS
      4.  Black belt
      5.  Formal button-up, collared black shirt
      6.  Formal button-up, collared white shirt
      7.  Formal blazer with long sleeves
      8.  Black tie and bow tie
      9.  Neat and presentable hair, away from the face
   2. Ladies
      1.  Long, ankle-length black dress, no strapless dresses (No cleavage)
      2.  Ankle-length black skirt
      3.  Formal long black trousers, NO BLACK JEANS
      4.  Plain black shirt/blouse
      5.  Formal black shoes
      6.  Neat and presentable hair, away from the face
2. Informal
   1. All
      1.  UPSOW shirts according to the ensemble (Included in yearly fees)
      2.  Blue jeans (NO RIPS)
      3.  Sneakers