Black
Hills
Youth
Orchestra
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​Spruce Ensemble
The Spruce Ensemble is an advanced string orchestra that performs new works and masterpieces from the standard orchestral repertoire at a highly proficient level. Members are selected through audition only and are generally advanced high school players. The ensemble provides the unique opportunity for students to perform without a conductor, playing side-by-side with local professional musicians. (See audition information below.)
Rehearsal: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:45pm
September 9 – May 10
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​Aspen Ensemble
The Aspen Ensemble is a multi-level string orchestra of beginning and intermediate students. It refines students orchestral techniques while performing new works and arrangements from the standard orchestral repertoire. The ensemble provides challenging music and leadership opportunities for older, more advanced players, while alternative parts and coaching from Student Mentor Musicians allow ample opportunity for beginning players to be successful.
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​Rehearsal: Tuesdays, 5-6pm
September 9 – May 10
2025-2026 Audition Information
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Students who wish to play for the Spruce Ensemble
should prepare the the following for the audition:
1. a two- or three-octave scale of their choosing
2. 60-90 seconds of a solo, etude, or excerpt from their school music that represents their playing
3. the following excerpt:
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