Question 1

What is the due date for recommendation letters?

Accepted Answer

We prefer to receive your recommendation letters by the application deadline, however, they can be submitted separately and later by email to coyo@clevelandorchestra.com.

Please submit them no later than April 1, 2026.

Question 2

What are auditions like?

Accepted Answer

Auditions are scheduled in 10 minute intervals and are heard by the Youth Orchestra music director and our Cleveland Orchestra coaches. Candidates will have time to warm up prior to their audition. Auditions are private, a waiting area is provided for family members.

Question 3

Do I need an accompaniment for my audition my entrance audition?

Accepted Answer

NO accompaniment, please.

Question 4

When are rehearsals?

Accepted Answer

Regular rehearsals take place on either Saturday or Sunday of each week. Accepted students will receive a detailed schedule no later than June 2026.

Question 5

What if I have to be absent from a rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

Each member is allowed 2 absences per concert cycle. Dress rehearsals and performances are mandatory.

Question 6

Who are the coaches that work with each section?

Accepted Answer

Members of The Cleveland Orchestra conduct weekly coaching sessions throughout the season. 
See this season's coaches here.

Question 7

Does The Cleveland Orchestra and/or COYO have a concerto competition?

Accepted Answer

Yes, COYO has an annual concerto competition open to current members of COYO. The winner performs their entire concerto as part of COYO's third subscription concert. Finalists may also be chosen to perform as soloists with COYO and/or The Cleveland Orchestra in outreach and education concerts.

Question 8

Does COYO have interaction with guest artists that perform with The Cleveland Orchestra?

Accepted Answer

Master classes or coachings are occasionally given to COYO members by guest soloists. Guest conductors also occasionally work with COYO.

Question 9

What is the cost of tuition for COYO?

Accepted Answer

For the 2026-27 season, the tuition cost is $450. Need-based financial assistance is available.

Question 10

Does COYO Tour?

Accepted Answer

COYO toured to Boston and its surrounding areas in June 2009, Prague, Vienna and Salzburg in June 2012, and to China in June of 2015. COYO toured Europe in 2019, performing concerts in Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Recently, COYO participated in a cultural exchange with the Toronto Symphony Youth orchestra over the summer of 2024. You can watch a video of the exchange here.

Ideally, all current members will participate in the tour. Students are assessed fees for tours; these fees are in addition to tuition.
View tour pictures and programs here!

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COYO Audition and Membership FAQs