NVYO PHILHARMONIC

Overview

Philharmonic is an intermediate auditioned orchestra comprised of advancing string, wind, brass and percussion students.

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Players are expected to be able to play in various keys, through four sharps or four flats.  String players should have some shifting experience, and awareness of advancing bow/articulation techniques, along with a beginning or developing vibrato. Other extended techniques may occur. 

Wind and brass players should have experience with playing in sharp keys, and  approximately a two octave range. Percussionists should have experience on snare, mallets and timpani. Coaching is provided! This is not a checklist, more a general guide to readiness for Philharmonic music. 

AUDITION materials are available for each instrument on the AUDITIONS page.

Rehearsals are Monday evenings, typically 6:45-8:30 pm, with additional sectionals and dress rehearsals as scheduled. Most rehearsals are at Grand Forks Central High School, 115 4th St. N, in the band & orchestra rooms/lower level music wing. String seating is rotated each concert. Brass, woodwind and percussion usually rotate from piece to piece. ​

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• Returning Philharmonic members may  register for the 2025-26 Philharmonic season without an additional audition. (Placement auditions may be heard in the fall at rehearsal.) Choose Philharmonic from the options here:
  LINK TO REGISTER

• For students who are new to NVYO and would like to join Philharmonic, prepare the audition packet and register for an audition time! See AUDITIONS page

• Returning Philharmonic Students wishing to be considered for SYMPHONY will need to register for and complete an audition. Audition information for Symphony is on the AUDITIONS page. 

• The conductors' placement decision will determine which orchestra for the student. 

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Important note:  Orchestral placement is at the discretion of the conductors, regardless of the student’s declared intent.  Age is never the ONLY determining factor in orchestral placement; NVYO ensembles are arranged by playing level. Orchestral assignment is made with intent to create the overall best experience for each student, with orchestra balance in mind.

Fees – 2025-26
Register before May 31, 2025 and save!​

• Tuition is $285 for the entire school year, $275 before August 31, $265 if registration is received by May 31st. 

• Fees include all instruction, music use, sectional opportunities, and a t-shirt.

• Students joining in the middle of the season or with extreme circumstances such as a move or Air Force transfer may inquire about a reduced half-year tuition rate, presently $165 for Philharmonic.

• Limited scholarships are available, need or merit- based for all members. Complete the appropriate application online HERE. Please submit prior to registration for best consideration. 

Contact Naomi Welsh with questions – nwelsh@novyo.org,

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