Ensembles

The Harmony Program offers city-wide youth ensemble opportunities for all levels, 100% tuition free.

Harmony Program ensembles help young musicians grow together. Weekly rehearsals blend skill-building, sectionals, and full-ensemble work, with clear practice goals and space to lead and listen. We group students by age and experience so each musician is both challenged and supported. Our goal is to build a community, foster joy, and create a welcoming space where the music truly belongs to our students.

NOTE TO FAMILIES: Please Read Before Applying

Before submitting your application, please read all of the information on this page carefully. It includes important details about eligibility, program dates, attendance requirements, schedules, tuition, auditions (if applicable), and application deadlines.

Applications that do not meet the listed requirements will not be considered. Many of the questions we receive are answered below, so we encourage families to review the information in its entirety before applying.

By submitting an application, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the program requirements and policies.

BEGINNER ENSEMBLES

CHILDREN’S ORCHESTRA

  • Experience: 2+ years
  • Grades: 1st and up
  • Audition required
  • Start date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
  • Rehearsals: Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
  • Location: St. Paul & St. Andrew, 263 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024

CHILDREN’S CHOIR

  • No experience needed
  • Grades: K-5th (reading skills required)
  • No audition required
  • Start date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
  • Rehearsals: Saturdays, 9:00-10:30 a.m.
  • Location: Judson Memorial Church, 55 Washington Square South, New York, NY 10012

INTERMEDIATE ENSEMBLES

JUNIOR ORCHESTRA

  • Experience: 3+ years
  • Grades: 3rd-7th
  • Audition required
  • Start date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
  • Rehearsals: Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
  • Location: St. Paul & St. Andrew, 263 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024

JUNIOR CHOIR

  • No experience needed
  • Grades: 4th-8th
  • Audition required
  • Start date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
  • Rehearsals: Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. -12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Judson Memorial Church, 55 Washington Square South, New York, NY 10012
  • Audition (on site): Saturday, August 29, 1:00 p.m. at AMDA Studio | 244 West, 54th Street, 12th Floor

ADVANCED ENSEMBLES

YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

  • Experience: 4+ years
  • Grades: 8th-12th
  • Audition required
  • Start date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
  • Sectional Rehearsals: Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
  • Rehearsals: Saturdays, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
  • Location: Judson Memorial Church, 55 Washington Square South, New York, NY 10012

YOUTH CHOIR

  • No experience needed
  • Grades: 8th-12th
  • Audition required
  • Start date: Wednesday, October 7, 2026
  • Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
  • Location: Judson Memorial Church, 55 Washington Square South, New York, NY 10012
  • Audition (on site): TBD

AUDITION MATERIALS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I audition for more than one ensemble?

As you complete the application, you’ll see the highest ensemble you’re eligible for. You’ll be required to submit the audition materials for that ensemble. If you’d like, you may also upload additional videos to be considered for higher ensembles, but this step is entirely optional.

Will there be performances?

Yes! Each ensemble performs publicly at least three times each year.

Does submitting an application guarantee acceptance?

No. Admission is based on audition results, ensemble placement, and available space. Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

What if I miss the application deadline?

Late applications may not be considered. We encourage all families to submit their applications before the posted deadline.

When will I receive my audition results?

Applicants will be notified by email on September 4th.

Can I request a specific teacher or conductor?

No. Faculty assignments are made by the Harmony Program based on the needs of each ensemble and program.

Can my child participate in more than one ensemble?

Some students may participate in more than one ensemble if they meet the eligibility requirements and are invited to do so. Placement is determined by the Harmony Program.

What happens if my child is not accepted?

Students who are not accepted may be placed on a waitlist if space becomes available. We encourage students to apply again in future seasons as they continue developing their musical skills.

Where are rehearsals held?

Rehearsal locations vary by ensemble. Please refer to the program descriptions above for each ensemble’s rehearsal location and schedule.

How will I receive updates about the program?

All program communications, including audition results, acceptance letters, schedules, and important announcements, will be sent via email. Please make sure to check your inbox regularly and add Harmony Program to your safe sender list.

APPLY

By clicking “Apply Now,” you certify that you have read all of the information on this page, including the eligibility requirements, program schedule, attendance policy, deadlines, and application instructions.

Applications for Ensembles close on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 5pm.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

Email us at programs@harmonyprogram.org for more information.

Preguntas? Envíanos un mensaje a programs@harmonyprogram.org para más información. ¡Hablamos español!

如有更多问题,欢迎发送电子邮件至 programs@harmonyprogram.org 获取更多信息。我们会说普通话!

Email us at programs@harmonyprogram.org for more information.