MacPhail Northside Youth Orchestra (MNYO)

A Tuition-free Symphonic Orchestra Program in North Minneapolis

We believe in the transformational power of music and strive to create a welcoming space that encourages musical growth and development.

Announcements

What an incredible 2024-25 season we’ve had! From our performances at Orchestra Hall and MMEA to our memorable concerts in Antonello Hall and up at Madeline Island, it’s been a year filled with amazing music-making.

Now we’re excited to build on that momentum with even more performances and unforgettable moments ahead. Whether you’re a returning member or joining us for the first time, we can’t wait to reconnect with familiar faces and welcome new ones when we kick off in October!

Fall 2025 Audition Information

Saturday, October 4th from 1:05 pm – 2:45 pm

Audition times are assigned upon arrival unless previously arranged with the conductor via email.

Please arrive 10~15 minutes before 1:00 pm to warmup and sign up for an audition time.

Audition Requirements

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Prerequisites

What to Expect

Audition Requirements

Prerequisites

Students must be entering grades 7-12 and have at least 1 year of previous experience playing their instrument (either in individual lessons or in a school program).
Students should also have access to an instrument (permission from school to bring their instrument to rehearsals and for home practice).
Students must audition on one of the following instruments: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Tuba, Percussion, Violin, Viola, Cello or Double Bass.

What to Expect

Students in our ensemble range from mid-beginner to late-intermediate level. We encourage mentoring friendship amongst our orchestra members.
Students should plan on attending rehearsals weekly and taking their music home for additional practice
Most rehearsals will include a full orchestra rehearsal, sectionals, bucket drumming and other enrichment activities, including guest artist visits from the Minnesota Orchestra
MNYO performs 3-6 times in a school year, mostly between January-May.

Audition Requirements

Two (one octave) scales of your choice or One (two octave) scale of your choice.
One piece (2~3 mins) that you are currently working on or have worked on over the summer.
There may be a short sight-reading piece.
Percussionist(s): please discuss with your teacher and play what’s recommended by your teacher.
Register!

MNYO Calendar 2025-26

Download the MNYO Calendar

Fall 2025

October 4 – Auditions / First Day
October 18 – MEA weekend, no rehearsal
November 29 – Thanksgiving, no rehearsal
December 20 & 27 – Winter break, no rehearsal
January 17 – MLK weekend, no rehearsal
January 30 – Winter Concert at Antonello @7:30pm

Spring 2026

March 8 – School Partnership Showcase Recital at Antonello @4:30pm
March 14 – SAM graduation, no rehearsal
April 4 – Spring break, no rehearsal
August 4 – National Night Out