Join EYSO

Serving students grade four through college-age, EYSO comprises nearly 300 students from more than 70 communities in the Chicago area. Each ensemble offers its members unparalleled opportunities to perform, learn, and collaborate in a fair and welcoming environment.

Auditions for EYSO’s 2021-22 season will take place May 27-30, 2021 at Elgin Community College. Click “Audition Information & Requirements” to learn more about the process and start your application.

The EYSO Placement Philosophy

After hearing auditions in late spring, EYSO staff thoughtfully make placement decisions based on playing ability, age, and the current needs of each ensemble. Students are placed in the ensemble most closely matching their musical level, including such considerations as quality of tone production, technical facility, range on the instrument, intonation, vibrato, dynamic range, articulation, phrasing, rhythmic integrity, expressive style, and overall accuracy.

Meeting the printed requirements of an orchestra does not guarantee placement. Striving to provide the best educational experience for students, we take a holistic look at each audition and determine the most suitable placement for cultivating growth.