2008 Artist Competition
$25.00 Refundable Application Fee Required

Application Available Here.

Closed Audition Date: November 08, 2008

Application Requirements:

1. Applicants may compete in one of the following divisions:
   1) instrumental/vocal, or 2) piano.
2. Applicants must submit proof that they are at least 18 years of age.
3. Applicants must currently be either a legal resident of New Jersey, or matriculated at a New Jersey College or University.
4. Instrumental applicants must play a movement of their choice from any concerto or composition written for their solo instrument and orchestra, FROM MEMORY. The remaining movements must be learned and available at the request of the judges. Sheet music for the remaining movements may be used in the competition, if necessary. However, the entire piece must be played from memory in rehearsals and performance, should the applicant be a winner.
5. Vocal applicants must sing three contrasting songs and/or arias written for solo voice and orchestra, FROM MEMORY, in both the competition and performance.
6. An accompanist is not required, but if desired, MUST BE PROVIDED BY THE APPLICANT.
7. Applicants must include with this application a written letter of recommendation from their current teacher. If applicant is not currently studying with a teacher, they may substitute a copy of their most recent diploma.
8. Applicants must also provide with this application an audio recording (either an audiocassette or CD) of themselves either 1) playing the entire piece, or 2) singing all three songs/arias, that they will be playing or singing in the competition. This recording will not be returned. No videos will be accepted.
9. Applicants must include a check or money order for $25.00 payable to the “South Orange Symphony.” This check/money order will be returned to the applicant after their competition audition. Applicants who do not complete their scheduled competition audition will forfeit the $25.00 fee.
10. Applications must be postmarked no later than Friday, October 10, 2008. Email and hand- delivered applications will not be accepted. Accepted applicants will be notified of the time and date of their scheduled competition audition no later than November 1, 2008. Closed auditions will be held on Saturday – November 08, 2008. Entrants will be notified of the time scheduled for their audition and the location. The date of audition is tentative and subject to change. All applicants will be notified should this happen.
11. Judges will include the Music Director/Conductor and selected members of the Board of Directors or orchestra. The judges expect to choose one winner in each division. Each winner will receive a $500.00 cash prize upon completion of their performance as a soloist with the orchestra at a regularly scheduled concert presented by the South Orange Symphony during the same season. Should a winner not be available for the scheduled concert date, the runner-up will be chosen to perform and receive the $500.00 prize.
12. Winners will be notified approximately one week after the competition. Their names will also be placed on the orchestra’s web site (www.southorangesymphony.org). Winners will need to provide a camera ready photo and biographical narrative within 2 weeks of being notified of winning.
13. A Steinway piano will be provided by the orchestra for the piano winner for the performance. If a different piano is desired, it must be provided by the winner.
14. The orchestra reserves the right to reject any applicant.

Submit application with $25.00 refundable fee to:
South Orange Symphony — Attn: Artist Competition
P.O. Box 91, South Orange, NJ 07079-0091

For questions regarding the competition, please contact our Personnel Manager - (973) 729-5275.