UNLEASH YOUR
CREATIVITY!

Explore new music, work with composers, and share music with the world

EMPIRE STATE YOUTH ORCHESTRA
Your music. Your people. Your orchestra.

Strings • Winds • Brass • Percussion • Jazz

For developing players to advanced musicians (NYSSMA Levels 2–6)

ESYO offers a supportive, high-quality ensemble experience that helps students:

• Grow as confident, capable musicians

• Perform inspiring repertoire

• Build friendships and lasting musical memories

• Learn from experienced conductors and coaches

ENSEMBLES FOR EVERY LEVEL

ESYO offers a range of ensembles across orchestral and jazz programs.

Auditions help us place students in the ensemble that best matches their experience and readiness.

Not sure where you fit? We’re happy to help.

Register for an Audition Today

Auditions are currently open for students that DID NOT audition in June.

Record your audition video yourself and submit it by August 28th. Positions will be filled on a rolling basis.

Video Submission Guidelines

Strings

Double Bass

String Orchestra, Concertino Strings

Cello

Concertino Strings, Symphony Orchestra

Violin

Concertino Strings, Symphony Orchestra

Woodwinds

Tenor Saxophone

Wind Orchestra, Youth Jazz Orchestra, Repertory Jazz Orchestra

Clarinets

Repertory Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra

Bassoon

Repertory Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra

Alto Saxophone

Youth Jazz Orchestra

Brass

Tuba

Wind Orchestra

Trombone/Bass Trombone

Wind Orchestra, Repertory Orchestra, Repertory Jazz Orchestra, Youth Jazz Orchestra

Trumpet

Repertory Orchestra, Youth Jazz Orchestra, Repertory Jazz Orchestra

French Horn

Repertory Orchestra, Wind Orchestra

Percussion & Piano

No Current Openings

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Auditions & Placement

ESYO welcomes students in grades 3 through post-secondary who are ready for ensemble performance. Opportunities are available for musicians at NYSSMA Levels 2–6 across strings, winds, brass, percussion, and jazz.

Yes. Auditions help us place students in the ensemble that best matches their current level and readiness. The process is supportive and designed to ensure a strong musical fit.

Auditions typically include prepared repertoire, scales, and (for some ensembles). Detailed requirements are posted on our Audition Requirements page.

Students are placed based on musical readiness, technical development, and ensemble experience. Financial aid decisions are completely separate from placement.

No, all musicians must audition annually. Please note that even if a student is currently playing in the ensemble they are auditioning for, participation in the audition is still required and does not guarantee a secured spot for the upcoming season. Each placement is determined based on the audition results and the overall needs of the ensemble.

Rehearsals & Concerts

Most ensembles rehearse once per week. Rehearsals range from 90 minutes to three hours, depending on the ensemble.

Most ensembles perform two to four public concerts annually, with some additional special events or collaborative opportunities.

Yes, concerts are mandatory.

Through December 2026, rehearsals take place at Brown School at 150 Corlaer Avenue, Schenectady. Beginning January 2027, rehearsals will move to ESYO’s new music campus at 45 Mac Arthur Drive in Schenectady — the new campus will provide dedicated rehearsal rooms, sectional space, student gathering areas, and a permanent home designed specifically for youth music.

Commitment & Scheduling

Musicians are allowed two excused absences per concert period.

All musicians MUST complete and submit a request form at least two weeks in advance of any scheduling conflict.

Musicians are expected to review the rehearsal and concert schedule and ensure there are no conflicts before committing to other activities.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition varies by ensemble. We are committed to access — financial assistance and payment plans are available. No qualified student is turned away due to financial need.

Program Philosophy & Fit

No. ESYO serves students with a wide range of goals — from those exploring high-level performance opportunities to those seeking a meaningful, structured musical community.

No. ESYO complements private study and school music programs. Ensemble participation strengthens listening, collaboration, stylistic awareness, and performance confidence, while private lessons remain essential for individual technique development.

ESYO offers a structured pathway from developing ensembles to nationally recognized advanced orchestras and jazz programs. Students work with experienced conductors and coaches and perform in leading regional venues — all within a supportive, high-expectation environment.

General Information

No. ESYO students come from across the Capital Region and neighboring states. Placement is based on audition, not residence.

We’re happy to help. Email: info@esyo.org | Phone: 518-382-7581

Membership Information

I want to learn more about joining ESYO

Request more information about the various ways you can join ESYO.

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY!