The San Luis Obispo Symphony makes classical music exciting and accessible to everyone. Through the Youth Symphony, students get a chance to play, learn, and experience the joy of music in a setting that promotes discipline and teamwork. The Youth Symphony has five ensembles, so that young musicians at every experience level can take part.
Concert Orchestra
is the premier orchestra, comprised of the most advanced string, wind, brass and percussion musicians in the Youth Symphony.
Academy String Orchestra
is an advanced-intermediate string ensemble that builds on a solid foundation of musicianship.
Symphonic Winds
is an ensemble of immediate to advanced wind, brass and percussion musicians that explores fun and challenging repertoire.
Preparatory Strings
is an intermediate ensemble that stresses listening and teamwork skills, and provides a strong foundation for future playing.
Super Bows
is a beginning ensemble for students who have completed the Strings in the Schools program, or have had at least one year of private lessons.
All musicians are encouraged to audition, regardless of financial need, as partial scholarships are available. Students participating in their school music program receive a tuition discount. Families with more than one child in Youth Symphony also receive a discount.
The San Luis Obispo Symphony Youth Symphony is a launching pad for a musical life! As students increase in skill, they progress through the ensembles and get more opportunities to compete and perform.
Upon graduation, many Youth Symphony musicians are prepared to pursue other academic and professional avenues – including playing in the San Luis Obispo Symphony. Several of our orchestra members are Youth Symphony alum.
The Youth Symphony provides children throughout the Central Coast with the chance to master an instrument, learn teamwork and discipline, and develop a passion for music. You can help support our music education programs and more by making a donation to the San Luis Obispo Symphony today.
Pay tuition online! If your child has received a scholarship, please call the Symphony office at 805-543-3533 to pay your tuition over the phone.
The San Luis Obispo Symphony offers need-based scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition for students participating in Youth Symphony. Learn more and download an application here.
Want to join the Youth Symphony? Click the button below to learn everything you need to know about the audition process and to sign up.
Need to miss a rehearsal? Let us know by filling out this quick form.
We need parent volunteers throughout the year! Opportunities to help out include being a part of the safety vest crew, helping set up and break down during rehearsals, assisting music van presenters, petting zoo, and more!
