Drake University Honor Orchestra Festival

The Drake University Honor Orchestra Festival is an opportunity for all high school string orchestra students to perform advanced ensemble literature in one of two featured orchestras.   

All students wishing to participate in this year's festival must be nominated by their orchestra director.  Auditions are required only for students wishing to be considered for the Honor Orchestra. Auditions are not required for Festival Orchestra; students will be selected for the Festival Orchestra based on director nominations. 

Director Nomination Form

The deadline for directors to submit the Director Nomination Form is Sunday, November 9, 2025.

Audition Excerpts:

• DUHOF Audition Excerpts - Bass
• DUHOF Audition Excerpts - Cello
• DUHOF Audition Excerpts - Viola
• DUHOF Audition Excerpts - Violin

DUHOF Audition Instructions

The deadline for video audition submissions is Sunday, November 23, 2025.

In addition to full ensemble rehearsals, students will have the opportunity to participate in sectionals lead by Drake University faculty. The festival will conclude with a concert in the afternoon of January 24 conducted by Dr. Héctor Agüero of Drake University and Dr. José Rocha of Ohio University.