Penn Sinfonia Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Penn Sinfonia?

The Penn Sinfonia is a chamber orchestra featuring highly talented student instrumentalist in conjunction with College House Music Fellows. Most student members of Sinfonia are also members of the PSO, though that is not a requirement to play in the Sinfonia. In addition to stand-alone concerts, the Sinfonia collaborates with both the University Choir and University Choral Society each year. Sinfonia repertoire ranges from early classical works performed with the choir to recent contemporary repertoire for chamber orchestra or flexible instrumentation ensembles.

How do I audition for the Penn Sinfonia?

Audition information is found on the music website: www.sas.upenn.edu/music/performance. Auditions are held Tuesday-Thursday after Labor Day each fall. Auditions are divided into 3 parts:

1) Brief Interview (2min): each candidate should present the completed audition form and will be asked questions about his/her past musical experiences, orchestra repertoire, private study, etc.

2) Free choice playing (3min): the candidate can play anything of his/her choice for approximately 3 minutes. Candidates are encouraged to select music from the standard solo repertoire for their instrument. In some cases, advanced etudes are also acceptable. Candidates are encouraged to play two different excerpts, contrasting in character: one more lyrical to demonstrate musicality and one more technical to demonstrate dexterity.

3) Orchestral excerpt (2min): Excerpts are available online in late August.

What is the time commitment?

The Penn Sinfonia rehearses on Monday evenings from 8-10pm throughout the academic year, with the exception of reading days and final exam week. Attendance is required at all rehearsals. Sectionals or master-classes may be held outside of rehearsal time, though it will generally be limited to no more than 2 per semester. During concert weeks, one rehearsal may be added.

How many concerts does the Sinfonia perform each year?

The Penn Sinfonia performs 4 or 5 concerts annually. A typical season will include 2 Sinfonia concerts plus 2 additional concerts performed in conjunction with the University Choir or Choral Society. See the online repertoire list for works that have been performed recently.

How competitive is membership in the Sinfonia?

Membership in Sinfonia is highly competitive. It is expected that Sinfonia members are able to perform at a very high level and to learn new music at a rapid pace. Rehearsals are intentionally limited, and expectations are high. Returning members in good standing will be given first consideration for Sinfonia membership. However, there are typically openings in each section. Talented players who are looking for a challenging performance environment are encouraged to audition.

How are Sinfonia members seated?

Sinfonia seating is flexible. Members may be rotated at the discretion of the conductor, with regard to the needs of the piece being performed. Members may not perform on every piece, or sometimes may not perform on a concert altogether, depending on the instrumentation needs for that concert.

I'm not a Penn student. Can I join the Sinfonia?

Yes. All Penn undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff, are eligible to audition. In addition, community members, students from other universities in the Philadelphia area, and even talented high school students are also welcome to audition for the Penn Sinfonia with the understanding that Penn students will be given first priority for membership.

Can I join the Sinfonia in mid-year?

In some cases, if instruments are needed. Contact the conductor for more information.

Can I receive credit for participating in the Penn orchestra?

Yes. Music 7, Ensemble Credit, is available to all student members of the Sinfonia.