Applications Accepted
October 1, 2025–December 10, 2025
Student Side-by-Side Application Form→
Teacher Recommendation Form→
String and Trumpet Excerpts→
Students will be notified of application decisions during the week of January 26, 2026.
25/26 Student Side-By-Side
Experience the power of the orchestra
Applications Open!
The Side-by-Side application for string instruments only has been extended to January 4. Students applying for violin, viola, cello or bass have until January 4 to submit an application and teacher recommendation.
Calling all teens! Connect with music-loving peers, dive deep into orchestra repertoire, and prepare for your Heinz Hall debut!
This program for high school students in grades 9-12 invites talented teen musicians to experience the power of making music inside a full symphony orchestra. Students from across the region join forces for an 8-week journey to discover what happens when passion, skill, rigor, and joy combine to bring orchestral music to life.
This program for high school students in grades 9-12 invites talented teen musicians to experience the power of making music inside a full symphony orchestra. Students from across the region join forces for an 8-week journey to discover what happens when passion, skill, rigor, and joy combine to bring orchestral music to life.
Our previous concert and sectionals
What's it like to be part of the program?
This has been the best program I’ve ever been a part of."
I really appreciated the welcoming and comfortable environment of the Side-by-Side program. This was made possible by my great stand partner and everyone that participated in and helped run the program."
I got to focus on precise intonation and keen attention to detail. I’ve taken that attention to detail with me into my practice and rehearsals.”
In Side-by-Side, I was able to make so many friends, as everyone there was driven by the same passions and had shared interests with me. It felt like people truly cared and appreciated music."
As someone who had no background experience with orchestra, it helped me understand my role in the ensemble. It also helped me learn how to blend with the rest of the musicians around me and focus on other people."
It helped me solidify previous work I have done with the program in the past, allowing me to become more confident in an orchestral setting with new musicians."
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to audition or submit a video?
There are no required in-person auditions to participate, however some parts require a screening process. Students applying for violin, viola, cello, or bass are required to submit video recordings of two excerpts from the repertoire, while trumpet applicants must submit one excerpt; all recordings should be shared via unlisted YouTube links. See student application for details or contact Savanna Webber, Program Coordinator, at swebber@pittsburghsymphony.org for help.
How advanced of a musician do I need to be?
Any level of musician can apply; however, most students find that having at least an intermediate–late intermediate mastery of their instrument helps them feel successful in the program. Answering all questions on the student application and teacher recommendation thoroughly, with good detail, will help the selection committee decide if this program is a good fit for you.
Do I have to take private lessons?
No, you do not have to take private lessons. Your teacher recommendation can be from a music teacher at school or from a private teacher.
Do I need to be accepted into a music program after high school to apply?
Not at all! Side-by-Side is for all high school student musicians, regardless of your plans after high school. You must be in grade 9-12, play an orchestral instrument, and want to experience making music in a full orchestra setting!
How challenging is the repertoire?
The Side-by-Side program aims to select music that is challenging but still achievable for students playing at an intermediate to advanced level of proficiency. Previous pieces include Alberto Ginastera’s Estancia Suite, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's Petite Suite, Arturo Márquez’s Danzon No.2 and selections from Edward Elgar’s Enigma Variations.
What instruments can apply for the program?
All orchestra instruments will be considered. We are currently not accepting applications for saxophone, baritone/euphonium, harp or piano.
