Please check out Dr. S’s message for the upcoming season here
Pacific Academy Foundation Orchestra
We are excited to announce that auditions for the Pacific Academy Foundation Orchestra (PAFO) 2026–2027 season are now open! We warmly welcome all returning students to join us for another year of musical growth, collaboration, and performance.
In the new season, PAFO will continue under the leadership of Dr. Jacob Sustaita. We look forward to providing students of all ages and skill levels opportunities to grow through full orchestra performances, chamber music, solo opportunities, and leadership experiences.
Online Audition Information:
Online Audition Deadline: August 10, 2026
Online Audition Instructions:
Please prepare two selections that demonstrate your current musical ability and expression. Upload your videos during application procedure, or email your videos to: pafo@pacificacademyfoundation.org
Guidelines:
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Prepare approximately 2 minutes from each selection
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Choose two pieces with contrasting musical styles
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Select pieces that best represent your strongest preparation and performance ability
Selections may include:
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Concerto movement
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Sonata movement
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Suite movement
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Scale
Introducing the Chamber Music Program
In the 2026-2027 season, we are excited to introduce the Chamber Music Program to the orchestra!
The PAFO Chamber Music Program is designed for advanced young musicians who are ready to take their artistry beyond traditional orchestra performance. Through small ensemble training, students develop the independence, communication skills, and musical leadership required at the highest levels of performance.
Students will have the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Jacob Sustaita, professional musicians, and competition coaches to refine their technique, musical interpretation, and ensemble skills. The program provides focused preparation for chamber music competitions, auditions, youth orchestra leadership opportunities, and advanced performance goals.
2026-2027 Season Schedule
The new season weekly rehearsal schedule will remain the same:
Orchestra Program
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1:30 PM – 2:45 PM | Sectional rehearsal and coaching
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2:45 PM – 4:00 PM | Full orchestra rehearsal with Chamber Music students
Chamber Music Program
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1:30 PM – 2:45 PM | Chamber Music rehearsal and coaching
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2:45 PM – 4:00 PM | Full orchestra rehearsal
*Please note: The time distribution between sectional rehearsals, chamber music coaching, and full orchestra rehearsals may be adjusted by the conductor based on rehearsal progress, concert preparation needs, and students’ musical development.
We look forward to another wonderful season of music, growth, and unforgettable performances. Thank you for being part of the PAFO community!
Check out the welcome video from PAFO Conductor Dr. Sustaita to learn more about joining the Orchestra!
About PAF Orchestra
Founded in 2018, PAFO has quickly become a highly sought-after music program in Southern California. We offer a curriculum that is designed to prepare any student to become a well-rounded musician. We provide numerous opportunities for students to play as a soloist with the orchestra, as well as gain leadership experience within the orchestra. Aside from full orchestra rehearsals, we offer small group and individual tutoring, as well as the option to participate in Chamber Music. Guided by teaching artists, students of different levels are also paired for mentorship opportunities, creating closer bonds between students while learning the indispensable craft of teaching. There are several internship and community service opportunities available. Students can enroll in PAFO as a 5 credit class and may apply to the Pacific Academy Foundation Scholarship. PAFO believes in offering music for the greater good and engages in outreach to communities that do not have access to the performing arts including children's hospitals, assisted living facilities, community organizations and foundations that support the blind and disabled all over the world, and more!
Auditions for PAFO are now open! All standard orchestral instruments are welcome, including saxophone. We offer scholarships to qualified students.