Auditions will be virtual, with all candidates submitting their application materials through the online portal Acceptd. Specific audition requirements vary by instrument, but all applicants must provide 1) a résumé, 2) a one- to two-minute video essay explaining why they would like to be in the orchestra, and 3) videos of various requested performances. These recordings entail one to two solo pieces (either a piece of your choice, or of several given options), and three to five mandated excerpts. Optional excerpts may also be found for certain auxiliary instruments.

All Chinese citizens (including those from Hong Kong or Macau, and regardless of whether or not they currently live abroad) who will be between the ages of 14 and 21 for the entire duration of the 2020 season (from July 10 to August 8) will be eligible to apply. This includes anyone born between August 8, 1998 and July 10, 2006. The application portal will open on December 23, 2019 and close on February 29, 2020 at 23:59 CST (China Standard Time). Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so students are encouraged to apply early.

Every applicant will receive written feedback from our judges – professional musicians with credentials from top conservatories in the United States or Europe – regardless of whether they are eventually selected as a member of the ensemble.