School Music Policy
All American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras' members are expected to take an active part in their school music programs. Participation in school music programs is strongly supported by AYPO. ‘Participation’ means taking an active and regular part in supporting the school music program. That does not necessarily mean playing the same instrument that you play in AYPO; it can mean participation in another ensemble.
School Music Participation and the Audition Application Process
Musicians are required to acknowledge their school music program participation status on their audition application. Musicians will be prompted to answer the question “Do you participate in your school music program?” on the video submission page.
- By answering “yes”, a student is committing to participating in their school music program for the coming fall semester. AYPO will contact the music teacher at the school listed on their application in the fall semester to confirm enrollment in their school orchestra, band, choral class or your school’s equivalent ensemble.
- By answering “no”, a student will be prompted to indicate the reason they cannot confirm participation. Musicians who are homeschooled, are unsure of who their music teacher will be, or are attending a school that does not have a music program should indicate this. Musicians with extraordinary circumstances that prevent participation in their school music program are required to explain these in writing to AYPO via a waiver request (waiver link is included in the acceptance form). Following receipt of a waiver request, AYPO staff will in all instances engage with the student’s parents or guardians. As deemed necessary, they will follow up with the school music staff in order to reach a fair and mutually agreed outcome. You may not sign up for an audition until your case has been reviewed and your request for a waiver has been granted. Misrepresentation of a musician's participation status in their school program is cause for immediate dismissal.
If you have any questions regarding the school music policy or this form, please contact auditions@aypo.org.