2025–2026 auditions: Symphony (June 22 & Aug), Strings (June 22). Symphony registration discount if paid by June 22.
The West Island Youth Symphony Orchestra (WIYSO) enables young musicians to perfect their musical skills within an orchestral ensemble under the direction of professional conductors. WIYSO encompasses two ensembles: a Symphony Orchestra and a String Orchestra.
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (14 TO 25 YEARS):
The active season is from September to June
Rehearsals are on Sunday afternoons from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in Pointe-Claire
There is a $25 audition fee
We are now booking in-person auditions at Centre communautaire Noël-Legault for the 2025–2026 season on June 8 and 22, 2025. Use the link below to book. A second round of auditions will be held in August 2025.
Registration fees can be paid by cheque, cash, or e-transfer to finances@osjwi.qc.ca. The fees to be paid are as follows:
Returning Musicians
Early Bird (by June 22, 2025) : 250 $
Regular (after June 22): 275 $
New Musicians
Early Bird (by June 22, 2025) : 325 $
Regular (after June 22, 2025) : 350 $
Early Bird rates apply to anyone who auditions and registers by June 22, 2025.
What Your Fees Cover
Your registration fees include the full regular concert season and our fall rehearsal camp at CAMMAC. This year we will also be participating in the AOJQ festival, which will have additional fees. More information on this will be provided once the season begins.
Financial Assistance
At WIYSO, we believe every young musician deserves the chance to participate. To help make this possible, we offer interest-free payment plans and financial aid for families who need support. If you’d like to apply for financial assistance, please reach out to us at info@osjwi.qc.ca.
Please prepare your in-person audition with the following:
1. A major or minor scale of your choice.
2. One of the following choices:
a. The orchestral excerpts provided below
b. A short piece or study of approximately 3-5 minutes
c. A collection of excerpts from your most recent concert totaling approximately 3-5 minutes
Please note that only orchestral instruments (strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion) are accepted into the orchestra.
STRING ORCHESTRA (9 TO 16 YEARS) :
The active season is from September through June
Rehearsals are on Sunday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Pointe-Claire
There is a $25 audition fee
The auditions for the 2025–2026 season will take place on June 22, 2025. Use the link below to reserve your spot!
New Musicians
Please prepare your in-person audition with the following:
Violin
1) One solo piece or one movement of a concerto.
2) Choose 2 out of 3 excerpts.
3) Sight-reading test.
Cello
1) One solo piece or one movement of a concerto.
2) Cello excerpt.
3) Sight-reading test.
It is advisable to choose to play repertoire and scales that accurately demonstrate your level. (i.e. do not choose to play one octave scales if you are able to play 3-octave scales)
Outside of the regular audition period, we invite you to contact us by email to inquire about any availabilities we may have for the season. For more information, email us at auditions@osjwi.qc.ca.