Mr. Solomon is Program Director for the DC Youth Orchestra Program. He offers some thoughts, tips and insights on music and the DCYOP.

How does DCYOP promote leadership? 

This summer, DCYOP welcomed nearly 50 young people for a new summer program. It was a wonderful two weeks of musical learning culminating in a concert at the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital. The most unique element was the leadership development that took place for our chamber musicians. In addition to their 25+ rehearsal hours, each chamber group created a project to share their talents with the community. One group created a music video while others gave concerts at rehabilitation centers, senior living communities, and local schools (pictured below). Two students really shone—Melissa and Felicia. Melissa, a more experienced chamber musician, began to coach her fellow classmates when she noticed them struggling during rehearsals. Felicia was relentless in her effort to find a great partnership for her group’s project, contacting nearly 15 organizations. When asked what motivated her, she shared “I did not want to let my group down.” I am extremely proud of all of the young people who participated in this year’s summer program and grateful for the support of the U Street Music Hall and the Subaru Foundation of America for making it possible. 

What do conductors actually do?

Conductors do much more than stand in front of an orchestra and wave the baton to keep everyone on the same beat. From the first day of rehearsal until the last note of the final concert, the conductor is responsible for interpreting the musical score, efficiently organizing and executing rehearsal, ensuring that an orchestra plays as one harmonious unit, and through all this, conveying the power of music to the audience. Many conductors are more than just musicians. Frequently, conductors also serve as representatives of their orchestra. They address the audience at concert performances, speak to the community about the orchestra and music in general, and participate in collaborations with many other organizations. 

Tips for Juries and Auditions

Taking an audition or jury is challenging for any musician. Learning how to react under pressure builds strength and character. Just like most things in music, practice leads to a better outcome. The more auditions and juries you take, the better you will get! After taking over 50 auditions, here are my tips: 

Prepare: Start preparing for your audition or jury well in advance. I have learned that last minute preparation hurts my chances and makes me nervous. Setting a practice schedule many weeks before an audition and sticking to it will ensure you are ready to play your best when the time comes. 

Simulate: Don’t wait until you think you are fully prepared to do a “mock audition.” Once you can play through your music without stopping, you should simulate the audition experience by playing for your parents, your friends or fellow musicians! The more times you run through the audition material, the more confident and relaxed you will be at the audition. 

Breath: When audition day arrives, be sure to take several deep breaths before you begin playing. When you are nervous and your heart is racing, taking a few deep breaths will help to prepare both your mind and body to perform well. Start when you are ready; the jurors will wait until you are ready to begin.