The Eugene-Springfield Youth Symphony was created back in 1934 by a forward-thinking group of people who understood the value of music education for youth. Since then, it has grown and developed into one of the premier youth orchestra programs in the area. Our sequential program includes five levels of orchestral training and ensembles designed for students from grades four through the age of twenty-one.
Orchestras
The Orchestra Program provides a comprehensive and enriching musical experience for over 150 students, fostering their growth through three distinct orchestral ensembles. Our upper-level orchestras offer exceptional opportunities for collaboration, allowing students to work alongside esteemed organizations such as the Oregon Mozart Players, Eugene Opera, and the Eugene Symphony. These partnerships provide invaluable exposure to professional musicians and expand students’ artistic horizons, creating transformative experiences that prepare them for future musical endeavors. Each season features two public concerts, showcasing the students’ progress and celebrating their collective achievements.
Youth Symphony (YS)
Youth Symphony (YS) is our premier orchestra and offers our most advanced musicians the opportunity to tackle major symphonies, concerti, and overtures. Featuring a full symphonic instrumentation of strings, winds, brass, and percussion, YS provides a professional-level orchestral experience for dedicated young musicians.
Junior Orchestra (JO)
Junior Orchestra (JO) serves as a vital stepping stone for aspiring musicians, bridging the gap between foundational skills and the advanced demands of Youth Symphony. This full symphony orchestra, focuses on developing advanced ensemble skills by performing challenging orchestral repertoire that includes original and arranged compositions.
Little Symphony (LS)
Little Symphony (LS) serves as a vital bridge for young string musicians with 2+ years of experience, marking their first step into an auditioned orchestral setting. By focusing on developing essential ensemble skills and fostering a deeper understanding of orchestral performance, LS prepares students for the challenges and rewards of progressing to Junior Orchestra and ultimately, Youth Symphony.
String Academy
String Academy offers a non-auditioned introduction to string instruments for our youngest musicians, serving as a large-scale entry point into our organization and serving over 150 students. Weekly rehearsals provide a supportive environment where students with beginning to intermediate skills on violin, viola, cello, or bass develop fundamental techniques and learn to collaborate. This program provides crucial training in string performance, preparing students for seamless advancement into our orchestra program. Students showcase their progress and celebrate their musical achievements in two public concerts each season.
String Academy 2 (SA2)
String Academy 2 is an ideal first ensemble experience for string players with at least one year of individual instruction. This group focuses on teaching second-year students the fundamentals of ensemble playing. Through engaging repertoire, students develop essential skills and musical confidence, preparing them for advancement into our orchestra program.
String Academy 1 (SA1)
String Academy 1 (SA1) offers a introduction to string instruments for 3rd-5th grade students, conveniently scheduled before and after school within Eugene’s school system. Students will learn foundational techniques on violin, viola, cello, or bass within a supportive and encouraging group setting.
Ambassador Musician Program
Ambassador Musician Program (AMP) empowers ESYO’s experienced musicians to become leaders and mentors, offering two distinct pathways for growth. AMP aims to cultivate well-rounded musicians who not only excel in performance but also contribute to the broader musical community.
The Performance Track provides advanced coaching and rehearsal opportunities, refining participants’ chamber music skills while fostering community engagement through local performances.
The Mentorship Track focuses on developing pedagogical skills, pairing older students with younger musicians in String Academy and other ensembles to provide guidance and support.
