New for 2026! MCP is excited to introduce a brand new opportunity for auditioned high school instrumentalists - individuals or small ensembles. Join musicians from across the United States to form the Manhattan Honors Orchestra, led by Dr. Chung Park from St. Olaf College.
This exclusive NYC residency, running from April 18 to April 21, 2025, will culminate in a performance at the legendary Carnegie Hall on April 20. Don't miss this unique chance to collaborate, perform, and experience music at one of the world's most iconic venues!
Exciting Itinerary breakdown
Saturday, April 18: Welcome to NYC!
Morning/Afternoon Arrival: Step into the energy of New York City, check into your hotel, your home base for this unforgettable musical journey.
Afternoon/Evening Rehearsal: Kick off your experience with a dynamic rehearsal to start preparing for your Carnegie Hall debut!
Sunday, April 19: Rehearsals & Broadway Magic
Morning/Afternoon Rehearsal: Continue honing your skills with another engaging rehearsal session at the hotel, getting closer to performance perfection.
Afternoon/Evening Broadway Show: Immerse yourself in the excitement of Broadway with a spectacular show—experience the best of NYC’s theater scene!
Monday, April 20: Performance Day at Carnegie Hall
Morning/Afternoon Rehearsal: Finalize your preparation with one last rehearsal at the hotel.
Sound Check at Carnegie Hall: Step onto the legendary Carnegie Hall stage for your sound check—feel the excitement build as you prepare for the performance of a lifetime.
Evening Performance: Shine under the spotlight with an unforgettable concert at Carnegie Hall. Celebrate your incredible achievement with friends and family in the audience!
Tuesday, April 21: Farewell NYC
Departure: Say goodbye to the Big Apple, taking with you memories of an extraordinary musical journey and your Carnegie Hall experience!
This thrilling itinerary combines top-notch rehearsals, iconic NYC experiences, and the prestige of performing at Carnegie Hall—making it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Audition Requirements
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Submit two contrasting etudes or solo works that demonstrate the player’s level of technique, range, and musical expression. Also include three major scales (two octaves) which demonstrate tone quality and range capability.
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Submit excerpt(s) of player’s choice, one each on mallet instrument, timpani, and snare drum.
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Submit one or two movements from standard concerto or sonata repertoire that demonstrate contrasting style.
Festival PAckage
A Not-to-Be-Missed Opportunity for Performers Who Demand Excellence!
Festival Chorus Performance: Collaborate with a nationally-recognized guest conductor and performers from across the country.
Iconic Venue: Perform at the legendary Carnegie Hall, Isaac Stern Auditorium.
Percussion: MCP is proud to offer the highest quality percussion instruments for the rehearsals and performance, so you do not have to bring your own.
Post-Concert:
Delight in a post-concert buffet reception—a perfect end to your grand performance.
Receive an archival video recording of your unforgettable performance.
Cherish professional photos from the performance, celebrating your achievement.
Honor each performer with a certificate of participation.
Exclusive Extras:
Luxurious Accommodations: Enjoy a three-night stay in the heart of New York City at a prestigious Midtown Manhattan hotel like the Westin Times Square, Sheraton New York, or similar.
New York City Experiences:
Navigate the city like a local with an MTA Transit pass, including two one-way subway or bus rides.
Experience Broadway magic with group tickets to a hit show.
Take in breathtaking views from the Top of the Rock observation deck.
Personalized Support:
Benefit from the dedicated attention of an MCP operations associate to tailor your package details.
Flight coordination support is available through our in-house airline coordinator for groups of 10 or larger.
Meet the Guest Conductor
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Dr. Park’s primary studies were completed at the Peabody Institute and the University of Miami, where he studied conducting under the renowned composer and conductor Thomas Sleeper. A lifelong learner, he has continued his education through activities that include studying Dalcroze-Eurythmics, staying abreast of the latest cognitive research, working with master pedagogues such as Marianne Ploger and attending seminars on diversifying the repertoire at the Brevard Music Center. Dr. Park also spent a transformative semester in Hannover, Germany as a private student of Hatto Beyerle, founding violist of the Alban Beg Quartet.
Dr. Park believes passionately that music and music education can be a powerfully positive force in a young person’s life and has dedicated a significant portion of his career to supporting music in public schools. He has served on advisory committees, has led several hundred clinics during his time in higher education, is a mentor to young teachers and a resource to established teachers. He is honored to work with and serve his colleagues at all levels as the North-Central Division Representative on the NAFME council.
Dr. Chung Park
Manhattan Honors Orchestra Guest Conductor