Technically advanced string, wind, and brass players and timpanists between 16 and 23 years of age are encouraged to apply and submit mp3 auditions during the application period. Select applicants will be invited to submit a video audition for further consideration. Program selection and seating will be decided from the video.
Sixty-two students will take part in an intensive program that combines daily orchestral rehearsals under the baton of Maestro Michael Stern and chamber music sessions with some of the most renowned artists of our time. In less than ten days, students will be ready for two professional-level concerts presented by Carnegie Hall. Seminar days run from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (schedule is subject to change). Participants must commit to the full schedule for the entire ten days, taking part in all orchestral and chamber music sessions.
No time is available during the seminar for students to work individually on solo repertoire or excerpts, and the seminar is not recommended for students who intend to use their winter break for audition preparation.
There is no fee to participate.
New School Concerts announces the 2026 New York String Orchestra Seminar
December 19-28, 2026
Michael Stern, Conductor
Application period is July 1 - September 14, 2026.
Leadership support is provided by the Alexander Schneider Foundation, and the seminar is made possible in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. Further support is provided by an anonymous foundation grant and the tax-deductible gifts of many individual donors.
The New School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.