Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony auditions draw strong competition from area high school musicians
The ensemble, which draws rising 9th through 12th graders from across the Atlanta area, selects members through a rigorous process for its upcoming season.
Source: thecitizen.com
High school musicians audition for seats in the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony. Students who are not offered full-time admission may be considered as alternate members, who play with the group throughout the year as needed.
The AYWS invites high school-aged students to audition. Approximately 80 percent of the ensemble consists of juniors and seniors.
The AYWS draws high school musicians — rising 9th through 12th graders — from across the Atlanta area for rehearsals, concerts, and special programs. According to the ensemble's audition guidelines, roughly 80 percent of the group consists of juniors and seniors. Auditions are evaluated on sound quality, intonation, technical facility, articulation, rhythmic accuracy, musicianship, expression, stage presence, and poise.
For the next cycle, AYWS audition scheduling opens April 15, 2026, with auditions held at Lakeside High School in Atlanta.
Why it matters — Competing against 300-plus musicians from across the Atlanta area, a McIntosh sophomore earned a seat in one of the region's most selective youth ensembles — a meaningful benchmark for the school's music program.
⚠ Not yet confirmed
- More than 300 high school musicians auditioned and specific student selections (Yui Sato, Hannah Cookie)
- founded in 1988, premier status, conductor Dr. Scott A. Stewart, and citation to The Citizen
Reported by thecitizen.com, ayws.org
