Audition Requirements
Once you have submitted your application, you will be invited to submit your video audition. Applicants should submit a video audition with two contrasting pieces at the appropriate level for their grade.
The CBOI accepts members from every county in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Note: CBOI reserves the right to make exceptions to minimum standards. Trinity exam results are also accepted.
1st Violin · 1st Flute · 1st Trumpet · 1st Trombone
Grade 8 with distinction
ABRSM
2nd Violin · 2nd Flute · 2nd Trumpet · 2nd Trombone · 1st Clarinet
Grade 7 with merit ABRSM
or Grade 8 honours RIAM
3rd Violin · 3rd Trumpet · 3rd Trombone · 2nd Clarinet
Grade 5 with merit ABRSM
or Grade 6 honours RIAM
Harp
Grade 5 with merit ABRSM
or Grade 6 honours RIAM
Piano
Grade 8 with distinction
ABRSM
What happens next?
Step 01
Submit your application
Complete the online form and submit your video audition with two contrasting pieces, when invited to do so.
Step 02
Review by music director
Your application and audition videos will be reviewed. Successful applicants are invited to the summer workshop.
Step 03
Summer workshop
Five-day non-residential workshop in Dundalk. Compulsory for all new and returning members.
Step 04
Join the orchestra
Begin Sunday rehearsals from August and prepare for the Peace Proms concert tour and other events.
Question about getting involved?
COUNT US IN is our free instrumental music education programme, giving children and teens the opportunity to develop their musical skills and providing a pathway towards membership of the Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland.
We welcome a new intake of beginner students each year. Violin beginners can join from ages 7–8, while beginners on trumpet, clarinet and cello start at age 9 or 10. Beginners on trombone and double bass typically join between ages 10 –13. We also welcome beginners aged 13+ on trombone and double bass and we're especially interested in anyone who is already learning piano.
Classes take place three Sundays each month during the school term at Coláiste Chu Chulainn, Dundalk.
In Year 1, students receive a free instrument on loan, along with weekly group instrumental lessons and music theory classes.
In Year 2, students progress to the Count Us In Orchestra, continuing their free tuition while gaining valuable ensemble and performance experience.
Applications for our annual beginner intake are accepted throughout the year.
