Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra Program
FAQ
When will we hear the results of our auditions?
Students who audition in May or early June will be notified of their orchestra placement by mail. Letters will be sent on or before June 20. Included with the letter will be your judges’ comment sheet so you can see your scores and read what the judges had to say.
What if I don’t like my orchestra assignment? Can I re-audition?
You should call Gregory Ruffer to discuss your audition and get some insight into why you were placed in the orchestra. He will determine whether it is necessary to do a re-audition.
Who will be conducting the orchestras in the fall?
We are in the process of meeting with a Steering Committee of local and national arts professionals who will assist us in determining the best direction for the PCYO program. The full conducting staff for PCYO will be announced by August 1. In the meantime Gregory Ruffer, music department chair at the Patel Conservatory, has been given the position of artistic director of the PCYO program. He will be conducting the ensembles at times, along with the other professional staff we hire. The conductors that we hire will have excellent national and international reputations and experience to bring to our students.
Are the orchestras going to meet on the same days and times as they did this year?
At the moment we are planning to use the same schedule. However, after meeting with the Steering Committee, as well as looking at the number of students who are in each orchestra, we may determine that the schedule should be changed. We expect this to be decided and communicated to you by July 1.
How much does it cost to be in PCYO?
The cost of PCYO will be lower in 2011 than it was in 2010! We realize that times are tough all over, and we truly want to make it possible for you to be a part of the finest orchestra in the Tampa Bay area. The fees for participation will be:
$385 – full year tuition if paid in full by August 23.
$425 – full year tuition if paid after August 23 or if paid in installments.
The Symphony Orchestra and Philharmonic Orchestra will be going on a weekend retreat at the end of September; there is an additional fee for this.