NATIONAL ORCHESTRA CAMP & FESTIVAL

(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions

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Who should apply for the National Orchestra Camp & Festival?

Answer: This camp is ideal for young musicians who enjoy playing in an orchestra and are eager to develop their ensemble playing skills. If you are passionate about orchestra music, enjoy collaborating with other musicians, and would like to gain valuable orchestral experience in an inspiring festival setting, we warmly encourage you to apply.

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What is the age requirement to participate in this camp and festival?

Answer: The camp is open to young musicians aged 8 and above.

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Do I need to be an SSYO member to apply?

Answer: No. The camp is open to both SSYO and non-SSYO musicians. However, all non-SSYO applicants are required to submit an audition video.

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What will participants gain from joining the National Orchestra Camp & Festival?

Answer: ​​All participants will enjoy a three-day close-up and immersive experience working with our distinguished conductors and coaches. Through rehearsals, sectional coaching, and performances, they will develop essential ensemble playing skills and orchestral discipline that will benefit their musical journey. Participants will also benefit from attending workshops and enjoying free concerts by guest artistes, enriching their overall learning experience. (Please refer to the Programme Itinerary and Activities for full details.)

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I have never joined an orchestra camp before. Can I still apply?
Answer: Yes! Many participants join an orchestra camp for the first time. The National Orchestra Camp & Festival is designed to provide a supportive and inspiring environment where young musicians can learn, grow, and gain valuable orchestral experience under the guidance of experienced conductors and coaches.​

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Can you help me find or book accommodation?

Answer: Unfortunately, we do not arrange accommodation for participants. However, Ipoh Old Town has many hotels and guesthouses, which are easily available and can be booked online.

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Will someone guide my child if, as a parent, I am unable to attend the camp and festival?

Answer: Unfortunately, participants are expected to be independent throughout the entire camp and festival. We do not provide guardians or supervision services for individual participants.

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Is the camp safe for my child?

Answer: The camp activities take place in central Old Town Ipoh, where all venues are within short walking distance of each other. Participants will always be surrounded by fellow musicians, coaches, and organisers during scheduled activities. However, participants are expected to be independent and responsible for their own movements between venues during free time.​

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How are orchestra parts and seating assigned?

Answer: Orchestra parts and seating will be assigned by the conductors and coaches based on audition submissions and rehearsal needs. This allows participants to be placed in sections that best support both their learning experience and the overall orchestra balance.​​

 

Will all participants perform in the Grand Finale Concert, or will some only watch?

Answer: All participants will perform in the Grand Finale Concert. Parents and family members are welcome to attend and watch the performance.

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How much practice preparation is expected before the camp?

Answer: Participants are expected to prepare their assigned orchestra parts in advance before arriving at the camp. This allows rehearsals to be productive and ensures everyone can enjoy the music-making experience.

 

I am a violin player, how do I know I shall audition for violin I or violin II?

Answer: Please check out our audition pieces listed on our website and consult with your violin teacher prior to applying, as your violin teacher will have the best idea of which section (violin I or violin II) will be the most appropriate for you.

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What should participants bring to the camp?

Answer: Participants should bring: 1) Their musical instrument, 2) Folding music stand, 3) All sheet music, 4) Pencil for marking parts, and 5) Water bottle. String players are also encouraged to bring a spare set of strings.

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What if I do not pass the audition?

Answer: The act of auditioning is an accomplishment and we hope the process is a valuable learning experience for you. The National Orchestra Camp & Festival is organised annually, and we warmly encourage you to apply again in the future. We would be delighted to welcome you at next year’s camp.

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Can I have feedback on my audition?

Answer: Unfortunately we do not provide any audition feedback for the applicants, their parents or teachers. 

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Can parents sit in the rehearsals?
Answer: We regret to inform that no parents are allowed to sit in all rehearsals.

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How can the public purchase concert tickets?
Answer: Some concerts are free of charge (FOC) and open to the public (please refer to the Programme Itinerary and Activities). For ticketed concerts, information on how to purchase tickets will be published soon.

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What happens if it rains during the outdoor concerts?

Answer: In the event of rain or unfavorable weather conditions, the organisers will make the necessary adjustments to the performance schedule or venue. Some performances may be moved indoors, rescheduled, or shortened to ensure the safety of participants and audiences. Updates will be communicated to participants and parents accordingly.​​​​​​​​​​​​