EXPLORE ESYO

Orchestras & Ensembles

Whether you’re a classical or jazz musician, percussionist, or a vocalist, ESYO meets you where you are and places you in an ensemble that challenges you to grow as a musician and a leader. ESYO conductors, coaches, and teaching artists support nearly 600 youth musicians like you. Members range in ages from elementary through high school.

What is ESYO's Progressive Model?

ESYO supports 13 progressive ensemble experiences

Placement in an ESYO ensemble is based on your current musical skill and not by age. Young musicians enter ESYO at all levels. Some begin as members of an introductory program or ensemble like Concertino Strings or Concertino Winds & Percussion, while others may begin in a more advanced ensemble like Youth Jazz Orchestra or Repertory Orchestra.

Placement in an ESYO ensemble is not a competition. It's common for ESYO musicians to be in the same ensemble for more than one year with increasing opportunities to become an ensemble leader.

Membership in most ESYO ensembles requires an audition, which helps an independent panel of judges place you in an ensemble that challenges you as a musician and empowers you to become a leader on and off the stage.

Learn more about ESYO’s Audition Process