The YouTube Symphony Orchestra, comprised of more than 90 classical musicians from around the globe, who submitted video auditions to the site, held its first rehearsal Monday, two days before its Wednesday night debut at New York’s Carnegie Hall.

The YouTube orchestra is made up of musicians from more than 30 countries that have been practicing for the concert at home and receiving online tutorials from some of the world’s most respected classical musicians.

YouTube has announced an online contest that invites classical musicians from around the globe to submit two videos showcasing their musical abilities.

Winners from the competition will be flown to New York for a three-day music summit with top symphony music directors and other performers concluding with an April 15, 2009, Carnegie Hall concert.