OK, Andrew, you have to answer this: if it weren't for the whole mess of angry parents, stressful auditions, and a new orchestra that seems beyond your current level of ability- would you want to keep playing?

Perhaps you could talk to your parents about it from this perspective: you don't feel ready to audition, and that makes it a BIG stressful mess. What if you had some private lessons, and thus were able to get 'up to speed' with help, and audition for some opportunity when both you and your teacher feel that you are ready?

Are you concerned about the orchestra because you don't know anybody? Perhaps your parents have been told that you are talented enough to 'catch up' but this seems quite intimidating. You may have to take a leap of faith, and audition anyway, and see whether the 'powers that be' think that you have the talent to play in this group. Many times we see others who are better at playing than we are, and think of our own shortcomings. But I know that most music directors would love to have someone who is TRYING to learn new things.

At the very least, talk to your parents about how overwhelmed you feel, and try to work it out with them so that you can enjoy your playing.
Good luck!

Have you visited http://www.trumpetherald.com ? Very active trumpet forum with active professionals.

You should practice your heart out and go through with the audition. If you don't make it then you are no better than you were, but if you do make it you have a chance to perform with others and you it can only help improve your playing.

Lera, most orchestras and bands outside of your school will not allow members to switch instruments part way through a season unless they are short a player. Chances are very high that they will have filled all of the openings, and expect each member to play their part.

I am sorry to hear how stressful this has been for your Andrew. Tibbie pretty much said it all. I agree with everything she said. Excellent advice! Let us know how it turns out and good luck with it.