The GPYO Summer Session is an opportunity for students to continue their ensemble learning during the summer with regular meetings on Monday nights on the Westminster Choir College campus. The Summer Session will run from June 29th to August 24th ending with a performance on the 24th.
Price: $500. (Your $50 deposit will go towards your tuition.)
The GPYO Weekly Summer Session is divided into two ensembles of different age ranges and ability.
The Junior Summer Ensemble contains students from about 2nd grade to about 6th grade
The Senior Summer Ensemble contains students from about 5th grade and up.
*If you are not sure about what ensemble you are interested in based on this information, you can submit an audition using the section below.* (It is highly encouraged to submit a video audition either way)
Join us for a fun week of flute choir music and learning!
Gathering July 13-17, with the younger group meeting 10am-noon, and the advanced group meeting 1-3pm, we will culminate our time with a short performance for family and friends.
Besides learning fun new repertoire, we will work on flute skills and learning to perform in ensemble settings. Please join us for a fun and exciting week!
Open to ages 18 and under, only $150 for the entire week.
Requirements: The two orchestral excerpts found here:
Sarah Beaird is currently pursuing her DMA at Rutgers University with Bart Feller. She has performed with the Rutgers Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble for the last 3 years, and with the Helix! The Contemporary Ensemble, for 1 year. Her chamber group Danza Winds also won the Rutgers Chamber Competition in the Spring of 2024...
On July 23rd GPYO will be hosting our first ever Audition Workshop! Guided by industry professionals from Broadway, Opera, and the Professional Orchestra world, this workshop seeks to help students learn how to prepare for and act during auditions! Whether you are preparing for youth orchestra placement, All-Region or All-State, summer festivals, or conservatory programs, the audition room can feel intimidating — especially if you have never experienced a true panel setting.
The GPYO Audition Workshop is a one-day workshop designed to simulate the real audition experience in a professional, supportive environment. Students may register either as a Performer (mock audition participant) or as an Auditor (observer).
Current GPYO students get preferred rates.
This is not just a masterclass. It is structured, practical preparation — with clear, actionable feedback.
Who Should Attend
Middle and high school instrumentalists (grades 7–12)
Students preparing for youth orchestra, All-State, college, conservatory, or summer program auditions
Musicians who want objective feedback beyond their private studio
Students who want to build confidence before high-pressure auditions
Students interested in gaining experience as a soloist in front of a live audience
Experience a realistic audition format (enter, introduction, perform, exit)
Receive immediate verbal feedback from adjudicators
Receive a written evaluation form
Learn 1–2 specific improvement priorities
Video recording of the audition
This format allows students to understand exactly what adjudicators listen for — tone, intonation, rhythm, technique, musicality, preparation, and stage presence.
Observers will:
Watch live mock auditions
Hear detailed adjudicator feedback
Learn how panels evaluate performance
Take notes using the same evaluation rubric
Participate in group Q&A
This is an excellent low-pressure option for younger musicians or students preparing for future auditions.