Since 1934, Eugene-Springfield Youth Orchestras (ESYO) has been a vibrant cornerstone of music education and performance in the Southern Willamette Valley. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a love of music, cultivating musical excellence, and providing unparalleled orchestral experiences for young musicians in Eugene, Springfield, and the surrounding communities.
Eugene Springfield Youth Orchestra’s mission is to provide opportunities for youth to experience, appreciate, and perform orchestral music.
What We Do:
ESYO offers a comprehensive orchestral program designed to challenge and support students at various skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Our ensembles provide a nurturing and collaborative environment where students can:
- Develop Musical Skills: Through rigorous rehearsals, sectionals, and dedicated instruction from experienced conductors and coaches, students refine their technique, musicianship, and understanding of orchestral repertoire.
- Experience Ensemble Playing: Learn the art of playing together, listening to one another, and contributing to a cohesive musical whole – essential skills for any aspiring musician.
- Perform Live: Showcase their talents in professional venues, sharing their passion and hard work with appreciative audiences. Our performance season includes a variety of concerts, providing invaluable stage experience.
- Build Community: Connect with fellow young musicians who share their passion, forming lasting friendships and a supportive musical community.
- Cultivate Life Skills: Beyond musical proficiency, ESYO helps students develop discipline, teamwork, perseverance, problem-solving abilities, and self-confidence – skills that extend far beyond the concert hall.
Fun Facts: A Journey Through Our History
- Our Roots Run Deep: We started way back in 1934 as the Eugene Symphony Association! Our very first orchestral concert was presented in 1935 by the Eugene Junior Symphony Orchestra.
- A “Symphonic Safari” First! In 1959, we launched our original outreach concert concept, the “Symphonic Safari,” developed by Byron Miller. We’ve been bringing music to the community ever since!
- From Junior Strings to Full Orchestra: What started as the “Junior Strings” in 1971 with just string instruments, blossomed into the Eugene Junior Orchestra by 1978 when woodwinds, brass, and percussion were added!
- Growing Our Orchestras: We’ve continually added opportunities for young musicians! The Cadet Orchestra (now the Little Symphony) was created in 1995, and Encore Strings (now String Academy 2) in 1996, bringing us to four orchestras!
- Award-Winning Contributions: In 2004, Arts Umbrella was honored with the prestigious Fentress Award for our significant contributions to the city of Eugene!
- Celebrating Decades of Music: We’ve marked many milestones, including our 75th Anniversary in 2008 and our 80th Anniversary in 2013, which was celebrated under our new name: Eugene-Springfield Youth Orchestras!
- Alumni Reunited: In 2019, we celebrated our 85th Anniversary with a special full alumni orchestra concert conducted by Richard Long, bringing together generations of musicians!
- Building for the Future: Also in 2019, we launched the “2020 Vision for the Future Endowment Campaign,” which more than doubled our endowment in one year thanks to a record-setting matching gift challenge!
Join Our Musical Journey:
Whether you are a student looking to hone your skills, a parent seeking an enriching extracurricular activity, or a community member who believes in the power of music education, we invite you to learn more about the Eugene-Springfield Youth Orchestras. Explore our website for information on auditions, performances, volunteer opportunities, and how you can support our mission.
Thank you for visiting ESYO – where young talent takes center stage!
