What is Region Orchestra?

Region Orchestra is wonderful opportunity for students to perform with the finest  student musicians in the midlands of South Carolina and to perform under the direction of a nationally/internationally renowned conductor.  Colleges look for student accomplishments such as acceptance in to these prestigious orchestras, and these events also give students a chance to meet and make new friends around the region/state with similar interests.  The Midlands Region Orchestra is a two-day orchestra event for the strongest string players in Richland, Lexington, and Aiken counties.  Students who participate in the Region Orchestra may audition for the South Carolina All-State Orchestra, drawing from the most talented players in the entire state. 

The Audition Process

Audition times: Times are assigned very close to the audition date.  Specific requests are available.  If you have another important event on the date of the audition (wedding, SAT, family event, etc.), you must tell me by September 1st so I can relay that information on to the region audition chair person.  Otherwise, I assume your entire day , the first Saturday of October is completely free and you can audition at any time.  

Audition Music & SCALES
  • SCALES: The scales should be within all of your abilities if you've done well on scales test in class.  Let your test grades answer that question. The music may have a few unknown markings that I am glad to help with.  However, if the notes/rhythms are so foreign that they can not be learned within 2 months and then refined and perfected in another 2 months, then region is not for you.  I am happy to help and I encourage all of my students entirely to aim for the stars.  
  • MUSIC EXCERPTS: However, the region audition is the result of refined skills of an advanced player.  It is not the result of last minute cramming or spending more than 6 months to build to a mediocre goal of correct rhythms and notes. 

Region AUDITION  Information 

Region Performance Information 
When:                           October 7, 2023
Where:                         Irmo Middle School
Registration:              $10.00
When:                          November 17-18, 2023
Where:                        USC Aiken

2023 Midlands Region Audition Recordings

9-10 Violin Excerpt 1
​9-10 Violin Excerpt 2
11-12 Violin Excerpt 1
​11-12 Violin Excerpt 2
9-10 Viola Excerpt 1
​9-10 Viola Excerpt 2
11-12 Viola Excerpt 1
11-12 Viola Excerpt 2
9-10 Cello Excerpt 1
9-10 Cello Excerpt  2
11-12 Cello Excerpt 1
​11-12 Cello Excerpt 2
9-10 Bass Excerpt 1 - 
9-10 Bass Excerpt 2 -
11-12 Bass Excerpt 1
11-12 Bass Excerpt 2 

Registration

  1. Confirm the date - Make sure you can make the Audition Date (Sat. October 3, 2020) and the Rehearsal/Performance Date (Friday/Saturday November 20-21).
  2. Print/Practice/Play the Music - Obtain the music HERE. Show it to me to verify it is the correct music. 
  3. Pay $10.00 Audition Fee. - If you have a conflict for part of the audition day (Oct. 1) you must let me know when you register. Check ACT Dates or SAT dates
  4. Register - Please Fill out the form below and turn in your $10 fee to Mr. Pagal by the deadline 
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Photos from Stéphane Moussie, dumbledad