10:30am - 5:15 pm
1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203
Join us as the melodies rise all day long at ESYO’s Playathon! This spectacular event serves as both a friend-raiser and our most crucial fundraiser of the year. Experience the energy and inspiration from 10:30 am to 5:15 pm at Crossgates Mall, as we reach the pinnacle of our season of Rise.
This family-friendly day celebrates the power of music and breathes life into ESYO’s mission. Witness the talent of hundreds of young musicians, as every ESYO ensemble, including CHIME, takes the stage—from the deep rumble of percussion ensembles to the uplifting trills of the wind orchestra.
As the melodies fill the air, so does the spirit of giving. Enjoy the festivities, explore musical showcases, and participate in live auctions for a chance to lead one of our exceptional ensembles. Team up with friends, and you might just win the baton to conduct the symphony of support. It’s a day where every note played contributes to the success of ESYO, making Playathon an unforgettable celebration of music, community, and the breath of life.
Playathon is more than a marathon day of music — it is a powerful investment in access and opportunity for young musicians across our region. The funds raised ensure that no qualified student is ever turned away from the ESYO experience because of financial need. Contributions directly support scholarships, tuition assistance, and the essential operating costs that make weekly rehearsals, performances, leadership development, and community engagement possible.
This year, our goal is $150,000.
Every gift helps remove barriers, expand opportunity, and create a space where young people can engage deeply in music, be inspired by one another, and grow into confident, capable leaders. Support Playathon with a gift today — and help keep the music rising for all!
One of Playathon’s most beloved traditions is back—the chance to step on the podium and conduct the orchestra.
This year, we’re offering three chances to win, with live baton auctions happening throughout the day.
Whether you’re a proud parent, an ESYO alum, a music lover, or someone looking for a truly unforgettable experience, this is your moment. Auction winners will step onto the podium and conduct the orchestra in a short piece during the Playathon.
Winners may also choose to:
Dedicate their conducting moment to someone special
Invite that person to the stage
Pass the baton and let them conduct instead
In past years, parents have won the baton for their children, alumni have honored former teachers, and families have shared unforgettable moments onstage together.
Live baton auctions will take place at approximately:
11:45am – Wind Orchestra
2:15pm – Symphony Orchestra
3:00pm – Repertory Orchestra
Multiple winners may be selected at each auction.
Every bid helps support student scholarships and tuition assistance, keeping ESYO programs open and accessible to all young musicians.
Bid high. Conduct proud. Make a difference.
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Donate or fundraise today! With your donation or the donations you collect, you can dedicate your support to an ensemble and help them reach their goal.
