join ad astra - kansas city's youth orchestra

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In just one season AD ASTRA has achieved high levels of musicianship and deep ties with our community. 

Season One of Ad Astra included over 100 of Kansas City’s most amazing and heartfelt student musicians, produced performances of acclaim, and became a pillar within the music, arts, and music education community. 

Even more is planned for our second season in 2025-2026 which includes performances with professional musicians from the Kansas City area, engaging and challenging music, and will culminate with concerts in Germany (Leipzig & Rothenburg) and Czech Republic (Prague).

We are looking for musical ambassadors, just like you, to help us grow and enhance our Ad Astra community across our amazing city and beyond!

Our audition process is very easy, simple, and quick....and very student friendly.

Ad Astra is open to string players in grades 6-12.  We also welcome college students.  

Based on playing ability, age, and grade students are placed into one of possible three orchestras:

Apollo Orchestra (most advanced)

Gemini Orchestra (middle/advanced)

Aurora Orchestra (middle/elementary)

Register to audition by May 1st.  Audition fees are only $5.

*If you were a member of a Kansas or Missouri All District and/or All State Orchestra member please use code Honorgroup25 to waive your audition fee.

Click on your instrument's audition packet link below for all requirements.

And scroll down to submit your audition registration.  After you register you will receive an email with all information needed to submit your audition videos by May 10th. (Please save this email!)

Ad Astra rehearsals are scheduled for Tuesday nights from 6:30 - 8:00 pm starting in early September and through April/May.  Accepted students will receive the final/full schedule.  Rehearsals in 2025-2026 will take place at Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, KS.

For other requirements and tuition information please CLICK HERE.

All 5th and 6th Grade Audition Requirements CLICK HERE

All 7-12 (and college) Audition Requirements:

Violin Audition Packet and Requirements

Viola Audition Packet and Requirements

Cello Audition Packet and Requirements

String Bass Audition Packet and Requirements

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS TO SAVE AUDITION VIDEOS AS UNLISTED