Orchestra
Welcome to the DSA Orchestra
The Denver School of the Arts Orchestra (DSAO) is an intensive program for string musicians seeking to develop their talent, understanding, and passion for music. DSAO prepares students who want to become professional musicians but also serves those wishing to pursue music for their own enrichment or to participate in community and college ensembles.
As the Rocky Mountain Region’s only public 6-12 school for the arts, and a member of the Denver Public Schools, DSAO attracts promising young students seeking a challenging and inspiring environment in which to pursue their musical passion. Acceptance into the program is by completion of a successful audition, portfolio and interview. We welcome students of varying technical levels and ability who demonstrate talent, potential and dedication to string playing and to the art of making music.
Auditions for the 2027-2028
School Year
Round 1 Audition Information:
Step 1: Complete the Application (Open October 19 – December 1)
Click Here to Submit Your Audition Application – This form includes your contact information, art major of choice, and more. It is our way of keeping in touch with you through the audition process.
Step 2: Attend the Pre-Audition Meeting
Auditions materials for each department are different. At the Pre-Audition Meeting the directors will explain in detail the audition process and requirements for their arts major. You will be able to learn more about the classes and discuss what it’s like to attend Denver School of the Arts. Audition appointment information will also be shared at the pre-audition meeting. Attendance at the pre-audition meeting is optional; however, DSA requests that applicants/families watch the recording of the meeting and review the meeting materials prior to being provided an audition appointment if they were not able to attend the pre-audition meeting in person.
Orchestra Pre-Audition Meeting – November 4
Step 3: Complete the Audition
Auditions can be completed in-person or virtually (via Zoom).
Audition Requirements:
Auditions will include a brief, informal interview to get a sense of the applicant’s work ethic, passion for music and the arts, ability to be part of a team, and ability to work with a variety of teachers/mentors. Stringed instruments eligible to audition at DSA are Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass (Acoustic), and Harp.
Middle School Applicants will be required to play:
- One major scale and one melodic minor scale (two octaves 0-3 sharps or flats) plus a two octave G chromatic scale. Three octave scales are optional.
- A solo of their choice that demonstrates lyric and technical abilities (or two contrasting solos).
High School Applications will be required to play:
- One major scale and one melodic minor scale (three octaves 4-7 sharps or flats) plus a three octave G chromatic scale.
- A solo of their choice that demonstrates lyric and technical abilities (or two contrasting solos).
Step 4: Complete the DPS School Choice Application (Required)
Applicants to DSA must complete DPS SchoolChoice enrollment as a part of the application process. The DPS SchoolChoice Round 1 window for the 2027/2028 school year runs from December 1 through January 19 at 4pm.
Please note: completing DPS SchoolChoice and selecting “DSA” does not secure enrollment unless and until the student has been offered a seat via an audition at Denver School of the Arts.
All students who complete an audition will be notified by email by end of day January 11, 2027 about the outcome of their audition (either accepted, waitlisted, or not accepted).
If accepted, the student will have a seat at DSA next school year.
If waitlisted, DSA will contact the student’s family if/when openings become available. (Please note: this could be as late as the start of the 2027/28 school year.)
If not accepted, DSA thanks you for taking the time to audition, but we are not able to offer a seat at DSA to the student for the next school year.
Questions?
If you need additional information, please contact the Orchestra Department at:
Dr. Lasansky — Orchestra Director
enrique_lasansky@dpsk12.net
We look forward to hearing your student play and supporting them through the audition process!
Contact Information
Dr. Enrique Lasansky, Director of Orchestras
Office: A106C Library
720-424-1735
Office hours by appointment only:
MTRF 11-12, TWR 2:55-3:20
Enrique_Lasansky@dpsk12.net
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