Auditions for our rising families are approaching. We want to ensure everyone has the information required to participate in next year’s music programs.
As families prepare for the transition to middle school, Lincoln Middle School is excited to share information about its outstanding music program for the 2026 school year. Lincoln offers Band, Orchestra, and Choir classes that are widely recognized as some of the best music programs in California, serving approximately 450 students in grades 6–8 each year.
Whether your child is just beginning their musical journey or continuing years of instruction, there is a place for them in the Lincoln music program.
Music Class Options
Level I – Band, Orchestra, or Choir
No audition required — Level I classes are designed for:
Students trying a new instrument
Students switching instruments
Students who want more time to strengthen musical fundamentals
To enroll, simply select Level I Band, Orchestra, or Choir on the Lincoln elective form — you are automatically in. Families are encouraged to choose a music class even if their student is unsure about continuing, as it is easier to drop music later than to add it once the school year begins.
Higher Levels (Levels II, III, & IV) – Band, Orchestra, or Choir
Audition required — These classes are for intermediate to advanced musicians.
Important notes:
Students should select “Higher Level” Band, Orchestra, or Choir on the elective form if they wish to audition.
Students do not choose a specific level — music teachers place students based on skill level.
Students who participated in SMMUSD music programs in 4th and 5th grade are strongly encouraged to audition, even if unsure about continuing. Many 5th graders are ready for Level II ensembles.
Audition Process & Timeline
Audition dates: April 20 – May 1
Location: Lincoln Middle School
Who can audition: Current 5th–7th-grade students
Families must reach out to schedule an audition
Students must join the appropriate Google Classroom to:
View audition requirements
Access preparation materials
Sign up for an audition time
⚠️ Important: Students who select a higher-level music class but miss the audition window will automatically be placed in Level I, even if they selected “higher level” on their elective form.
Not Sure Which Music Class to Choose?
Here’s a quick guide to help:
Band: Flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, and more
Orchestra: Violin, viola, cello, bass
Choir: Voice
Elective Selection Reminder for 5th Grade Families
5th graders must select their Lincoln elective by early February. Families will receive a Google Form from Lincoln counselors to choose electives.
Only two music options appear on the form:
Level I Band, Orchestra, or Choir
“Higher Level” Band, Orchestra, or Choir
Families are encouraged to select a music elective even if music is a second choice, as other electives may fill up quickly.
Music Department Contacts
For questions or audition details, please contact the appropriate music teacher:
Band
Salvador Muñoz
Director of Bands
📧 s.munoz@smmusd.org
📞 (310) 393-9227 ext. 73452
Google Classroom Code: h6u5x4f
Orchestra
Sam Lorenzini
Director of Orchestras
📧 slorenzini@smmusd.org
📞 (310) 393-9227 ext. 73400
Google Classroom Code: jc7hef4
Choir
Vanessa Counte
Vocal Music Director
📧 vcounte@smmusd.org
📞 (310) 393-9227 ext. 73153
Google Classroom Code: frxsazy
Additional Audition Resources
Lincoln Middle School Band Audition Info
Chorus Audition Information
Orchestra Audition Information
(Links provided by the Lincoln music department in the original letter.)
