April 18, 2026 – [Davidson, North Carolina] NCYO’s 2025-2026 season may be nearing the finish line, but that doesn’t mean our musicians are putting down their bows, reeds, mouthpieces, and mallets any time soon. In addition to preparing for the season finale concert, students are preparing to audition for the 2026-2027 season.
On Saturday, April 18, the first round of students auditioned at Davidson United Methodist Church with the second round to follow on May 16. Audition requirements vary according to section but follow the same basic form. Students must prepare scales, a solo, and an excerpt with sightreading provided at the audition. Most students spend weeks diligently preparing for audition day.
Audition days are vital to matching students to the ensemble that best suits their skill set while encouraging them to strive for continued growth. Students also build their skills as they learn to manage any performance anxiety they might have. A great number of NCYO students grow up in the program, beginning at a young age and participating through high school. By the time they begin preparing for college, those who’ve auditioned year after year have refined their skills and are able to face higher level auditions with confidence.
To register for NCYO 2026-2027 and start preparing for auditions today, scroll to the top of this page and click register! There’s a seat for you at NCYO!




