What are Studio Classes?
Studio Classes are live, interactive performance workshops held twice a month for members of the Orchestral Training Division. In these sessions, selected students perform live in front of peers and faculty, receiving real-time, detailed coaching on both musical and mental aspects of their playing.
Unlike mock auditions, which focus on pressure simulation and panel feedback, Studio Classes are about refinement, dialogue, and open instruction. Think of them as a cross between a masterclass and a final-round prep session — except it’s focused entirely on orchestral performance, not solo literature.
Why join a studio?
What You’ll Perform
- A standard orchestral audition round (prelim or final format)
- 2–3 contrasting excerpts (per instrument guidelines)
- A full passage from a major symphonic or operatic work (e.g. Don Juan, Mahler 5, Daphnis solo)
- In some sessions: principal part excerpt to discuss leadership and ensemble roles
What You’ll Receive
- Technical feedback: articulation, rhythm, breathing, bowings, intonation
- Musical refinement: phrasing, timing, internal logic, clarity of style
- Psychological strategies: mindset shifts, pacing, preparation habits
- Audition-specific notes: how your performance would be perceived by a real panel
- Optional audience Q&A (submitted via written questions only)
Why It Matters
Studio Classes are where your preparation becomes performance. They help you:
- Test your playing in front of a live audience without judgment
- Accept and apply high-level critique in real time
- Learn from other students' strengths and mistakes
- Train poise, pacing, and communication — visually and musically
- Bridge the gap between rehearsal and real-world performance
How It Integrates
- Mock Audition Training: Test your excerpts in a lower-stakes setting
- Mindset Track: Apply mental strategies under real-time pressure
- Sectionals: Workshop key passages live
- Audition Feedback Program: Compare live vs. video feedback
- Orchestral Intensives: Studio Class acts as final public prep step
Interested in attending a studio?
Become a Studio Leader
To Perform:
- Sign-up link posted in the Live Calendar (Coming Soon) two weeks before class
- Rotating roster with priority for upcoming auditionees
- Submit repertoire preferences if desired
- Receive confirmation and time slot 5 days in advance
- Required to attend a technical rehearsal 24 hours prior
To Observe:
- No sign-up required for observers
- Access via posted Zoom or portal link
- Q&A via written submissions only
Outcomes
- Greater comfort performing for an audience
- Faster musical growth through actionable feedback
- Sharper real-time musical judgment
- Increased visibility with faculty
- Clarity on what “professional level” truly means
- Archived recordings for review and reflection
Frequently asked questions
What is a Studio Class?
Studio Classes are live, bi-weekly performance workshops focused on orchestral repertoire where selected students perform in front of peers and faculty to receive real-time coaching.
How are Studio Classes different from mock auditions or masterclasses?
While mock auditions simulate high-pressure panel feedback, Studio Classes emphasize refinement, dialogue, and open instruction. They're a blend of masterclass-style feedback and audition prep, focusing solely on orchestral performance.
How often are Studio Classes held?
Twice a month (bi-weekly), typically 90–120 minutes each.
Who can participate in Studio Classes?
Members of the Orchestral Training Division. Performers are selected in advance, but observers are always welcome.
How do I sign up to perform?
Sign-up links are posted on the Live Calendar two weeks before each session. A rotating roster is used, with priority given to students preparing for auditions.
Can I just observe the class?
Absolutely. Observers don’t need to sign up. Just join via the Zoom or portal link provided.
Will the classes be recorded?
Yes, all sessions are recorded and made available for review in the private Member Portal.
What kind of feedback will I receive?
Faculty offer:
- Technical coaching (intonation, rhythm, articulation)
- Musical refinement (phrasing, clarity, timing)
- Audition strategies and panel-style notes
- Mindset coaching and real-time performance habits
Can I ask questions during the class?
Yes, Q&A is available through written submissions only.
How do Studio Classes fit into the overall training program?
They complement mock auditions, mindset workshops, sectionals, and audition feedback sessions — offering a key step in translating practice into live performance.