Ensembles 24-25

With inquiries regarding auditions and enrollment, please call (605) 335-7933.

For paying tuition, visit our SDSYO Portal. Please email the Youth Orchestra Manager (connor.gibbs@sdsymphony.org) with any questions regarding access.

Youth Orchestra

Youth Orchestra is an advanced, full symphonic orchestra that performs masterpieces from the standard orchestral repertoire at a highly proficient level. Members are selected through auditions only and are generally advanced high school players.

Philharmonia

Philharmonia is an intermediate-level, full symphonic orchestra that performs arrangements from the standard orchestral repertoire while refining students’ orchestral techniques. Members are selected through auditions only and are generally middle school and high school players.

Sinfonia

Sinfonia is a strings-only orchestra for developing players. Students perform pieces designed to promote both the growth of their individual talents and their collective ensemble techniques. Members are selected through auditions only and are generally elementary school and middle school players.

Prelude Strings

Prelude Strings is an entry-level string ensemble designed to introduce young musicians to cooperative musicianship and life-long appreciation of music. No auditions are required for students interested in participating in Prelude Strings.

Registration is open until early January, following the first rehearsal on January 6, 2025. Visit the Auditions page for the Prelude Strings registration form. (Form is at the bottom of that page.)

Suggested Background / Skills for Prospective Students
• Suzuki Book 1 (or equivalent level)
• Minimum scale requirements: D major, 1 octave
• Ability to read notes on D and A string
• Students in grades 1-5 (with some exceptions)
• Recommended Traits: good posture; disciplined; prepared; conscious team player; the ability to function well within a group setting; able to listen to and follow directions

Camerata

Camerata is available for ages 6-18 with students placed in small chamber ensembles according to their ability level. Camerata fosters technical skill with a challenging repertoire of chamber music while working in small, intimate groups with focused mentoring from instructors.