Please note: the deadline to audition for the 2012-2013 has passed, however we will continue to accept Violin applications until all positions are filled. Violists and Cellists may submit applications to be considered for the sub list. Auditions should be submitted via video link, or you may contact us to schedule a live audition.

ME2/ has broadened the scope of its programs with the addition of a new string orchestra, ME2/strings, which debuted in September 2012. Auditions are being held to identify performers who seek a challenging ensemble experience with ambitious artistic expectations. We aim to provide a healthy working environment that supports musicians in presenting performances of superior quality.

Under the leadership of Music Director Ronald Braunstein, performances by ME2/strings encourage dialogue about the importance of mental health, raise awareness about available health resources, and help erase the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. To see the repertoire planned for the 2012-2013 season, please visit the Calendar & Ticket Info page.

Applicants for ME2/strings are not required to have a mental illness.

Auditions, 2012-2013 Season

Violin, Viola, and Cello

• Only highly qualified candidates should apply.
• Pay scale is highly competitive for this region. For those traveling from a distance, mileage and hotel will be provided.
• All applicants must audition by video. See guidelines below.
• No piano accompaniment should be included.
• Applications must include a resume (no more than 2 pages, please).
• All candidates’ names and videos will be kept strictly confidential in order to ensure privacy.
• Performance dates for 2012-2013 are: Sept 8, 2012; Nov 17, 2012; Feb 16, 2013; May 11, 2013; and June 8, 2013. Concerts will be held at the University of Vermont Recital Hall in Burlington. Rehearsals begin on Thursday prior to each Saturday evening concert.
• Deadline for submissions is Monday, July 2, 2012.

Video Guidelines
(video is preferred, but audio-only will also be considered)

• Please tune to A440.
• Use a condenser microphone, not an internal camera one. Place the microphone approximately 6′ off the floor, 6′ in front of the player, and pointed directly at the instrument.
• Record in a quiet environment without much reverberation.
• Record excerpts in the order shown on the audition repertoire list. Record everything, including the concerto, in a single take. Editing should not occur on any of the musical selections. Record excerpts first, followed by the concerto.

Most candidates have found that the easiest way to send video is to upload it to YouTube and supply ME2/ with a private link. Other methods are fine, too… just use whatever makes you comfortable.

Audition Requirements

Violin Requirements:

Excerpts -
Mozart Symphony No. 39               2nd movement, mm 1-37
Beethoven Symphony No. 3          3rd movement, beginning – Trio
Prokofiev Classical Symphony     4th movement, beginning – letter D

Concerto -
First movement of any standard classical concerto, beginning up to the development section

Viola Requirements:

Excerpts -
Beethoven Symphony No. 5              2nd movement mm 1-10, 49-59, and 98-106
Berlioz Roman Carnival Overture     rehearsal 1-4
Brahms Haydn Variations                 Variation V

Concerto -
First movement of any standard classical concerto, beginning up to the development section

Cello Requirements:

Excerpts -
Bach Violin Concerto No. 2            2nd movement mm 1-10
Mozart Symphony No. 39                1st movement mm 40-97, and 4th movement mm 116-137
Brahms Symphony No. 2                4th movement, beginning – B

Concerto -
First movement of any standard classical concerto, beginning up to the development section

If you have questions regarding the audition requirements or plans for the concert season, please contact Executive Director Caroline Whiddon:  ME2orchestra@gmail.com