Pit Orchestra
The UCLA PIT Orchestra provides intensive training for skilled student musicians in preparation for performing in a musical theater production pit orchestra.
Program Overview
The UCLA PIT Orchestra Summer Laboratory Intensive is designed for student musicians that are proficient in their instrument and have a passion for playing in a musical theater production pit orchestra. Students will rehearse with the musical theater ensemble and artistic team during rehearsals and take courses such as music, score/ script analysis, sight reading boot camp and master classes with industry professionals. These experiences will prepare students to perform in the culmination of a fully- staged musical.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: If you are an international student, a transcript refers to your complete secondary academic record. To learn more about converting your grades into a US-based GPA, please click here. Please note all international students must obtaine a minimum TOFEL score of 100 (with sub-scores above 24) on the TOEFL, 7.5 or above on the IELTS
Program Details
Campus housing has returned for Summer 2026!
Housing is available to students who will be 14 years of age or older by June 22, 2026.
Program Costs
2026 fees will be announced this winter and include on-campus housing costs.
2025 (Commuter only) fees were:
Program Fee: $3495
University Fees: $111
Registration Fee: $350
Total Fee: $3956
Contact Theater Laboratory Intensives:
theatersummerinstitutes@tft.ucla.edu
Requirements
Applications are reviewed and admission to the program is granted on a rolling basis starting December 1st. Applying at your earliest convenience, prior to May 1st, is highly recommended. The application requirements are as follows:
- Describe your passion for music. What do you hope to gain in the Pit Orchestra Summer Institute? (500 words max)
- Current Resume
- Submit one to three video files (no longer than 10 minutes each) of performance work that demonstrates your playing in the following areas: musical theater pit orchestra or ensemble performances. In your video submissions, please be sure you are highlighted.
- For each file, you must include a PDF explaining the context of each piece and any other relevant information.
Note:
The essay will be prompted on the registration form and can be uploaded (.pdf) along with the resume during the applcation process.
Please ensure that the email address for the recommender is accurate as an invitation to complete the letter of recommendation will be sent electronically.
All responses will not be accessible to edit in any form after submission of the application.
Video Audition Guidelines:
Please record using LANDSCAPE mode (horizontal) if possible, and do not film with a bright light behind you. Please be sure we can see you playing your instrument (eye level is best). We are not looking for professionally recorded videos, but please try to make sure you are in the frame and audible so we can best assess your talent.
Applicants must play one of the following instruments:
Orchestration for “Urinetown”
- Bass
- Drums – Drum Set
- *Reed Doubler – Bb Clarinet, Alto Sax, Bass Clarinet, Soprano Sax (please circle your best instrument)
- Trombone (Euphonium and Bass Trombone Optional)
The *Reed Doubler part can be divided among two players if you are not a reed doubler. Note: The Bb Clarinet part is challenging with a strong emphasis on a Klezmer style of playing. The Clarinet is the most played instrument in the Reed part.
Participants are expected to bring their own well-maintained instruments, equipped with necessary accessories. Students auditioning on Drum set must bring their own kit. A drum set will not be provided.
Large equipment may remain on the UCLA campus in the secured Freud Playhouse Orchestra Pit.
Program Eligibility
- 9th-12th grade
- Ages 15-19
Curriculum
View sample syllabus. UCLA Theater Laboratory Intensive students will receive a certificate of completion at the conclusion of the program. The program does not carry college credit.
Due to the intensive nature of the program, a maximum of two excused program absence is permitted.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial Aid is not available for the Theater Laboratory Intensives. As an alternative, students should explore the American Theater Wing, Andrew Lloyd Weber Training scholarship .
Important Dates and Deadlines
June 1, 2026
Application deadline
June 6, 2026
Enrollment Deadline
Sessions
June 21 – July 10, 2026