Orchestra Program
Orchestral and Chamber Performances form the heart of the MasterWorks Festival: This program is open to qualified students ages 14 to 26. Click here for audition requirements. Students of the orchestral program will work side by side with the artist faculty of the MasterWorks Festival in one of two orchestras: the MasterWorks Festival Orchestra or the MasterWorks Philharmonic Orchestra. Both orchestras study standard orchestral literature and perform weekly concerts. Guest conductors have been David Bowden, Miriam Burns, Delta David Gier, Darryl One, Andrew Sewell and Anthony Spain.
Additional performance opportunities include the Student Honors Recital, master classes by guest artists, Village Gigs and the MasterWorks Festival Concerto Competition.
All students of the Orchestra Program will:
- Rehearse and perform orchestral repertoire
- Study technique and/or solo literature
- Receive one private lesson each week
- Be expected to practice a minimum of 10 hours a week outside of rehearsals
Prayer before rehearsals and performances, mentorship by faculty and numerous festival-wide spiritual activities nurture the faith and Christian lifestyle of the students. Please refer to the Spiritual Life page for more information.
Placement auditions will be held the first Monday of the MasterWorks Festival for both orchestra and chamber music. Students should come prepared to perform a work of their choice. Sight-reading, scales and arpeggios will comprise the rest of the audition.
A note for all violinists: Please arrive at the festival on Saturday, June 16, in order to attend your placement audition on the afternoon of Sunday, June 17.
Chamber Music
Qualified students may be assigned to rehearse and perform chamber music literature after an audition on the first day of the festival. Pre-formed chamber groups are also welcome. Please indicate on the application if you plan on participating in a pre-formed group.
Chamber ensembles receive:
- Weekly coaching with members of the orchestra faculty.
- Performance opportunities including recitals and worship services.
For more information about orchestra and chamber music opportunities at MasterWorks, click here to watch a promotional video.
Weekends at 7:30pm | Mid June - Mid July
at the Rodeheaver Auditorium

