Saratoga Orchestra’s Talent Development Program (TDP) provides highly qualified students living on Whidbey Island a mentoring and performance opportunity as a participant in the Saratoga Orchestra. The program is designed to enhance local opportunities for young musicians to experience first-hand orchestral ensemble playing.
Audition requirements:
Please download the WMEA / NAfME audition sheets.
If chosen, TDP Students will be paired with Saratoga Orchestra mentors who are accomplished classical musicians with a love of music and interacting with and teaching young musicians. Mentors serve as role models to young musicians, sharing their knowledge of orchestra rehearsal and performance techniques and behaviors. The TDP musicians will consult their mentor first when questions arise about the orchestra repertoire, attendance, etc.
TDP String players will be assigned to an inside stand position. In such a position, they are expected to mark the music as required during rehearsals (dynamics, bowings). All TDP musicians will receive a full set of music for practice at home. The mentor’s music will be used for all rehearsals and the concerts.
TDP Winds/Brass players will be expected to learn all music and may perform selected sections of the music as directed by the section Principal and Artistic Director.
All TDP musicians are strongly urged to study with a private teacher.
TDP musicians must be available for all rehearsals and performances. If a conflict arises between an Saratoga rehearsal/performance and a school music program and/or youth orchestra rehearsal/concert, the the student should honor the school/youth orchestra program. We are in full support of such programs.
To get more information, please visit www.sowhidbey.com or call 360-929-3045.