Young People’s Symphony Orchestra
Young People’s Symphony Orchestra
California’s Oldest Youth ORchestra. Founded in 1936.
OUR MISSION IS TO GUIDE YOUNG MUSICIANS TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE WITHIN AN ORCHESTRAL SETTING.
WE ENCOURAGE YOUNG PEOPLE TO BECOME EXEMPLARY MUSICIANS, AND YOUNG MUSICIANS TO BECOME EXEMPLARY PEOPLE.
Upcoming Events
YPSO Spring Concert - America 250 Festival
YPSO is putting on a multi-part festival experience centered on celebrating the music and creativity of American classical composers. Through performances, community engagement, student-led small ensembles, our festival will showcase how American music is a cultural fusion of many musical genres. We invite all young people to explore American music together in this community-wide celebration.
Program includes:
Jessie Montgomery — Starburst
Aaron Copland — Buckaroo Holiday from Rodeo
Samuel Barber — Essay No. 2 for Orchestra, Op. 17
Leonard Bernstein — Symphonic Dances from West Side Story
… and Select Chamber works
2026–27 Season Auditions
YPSO’s 90th Anniversary Year
Round 2 of auditions for new students for the 2026–27 season are open. Video Pre-screen Submission Deadline is May 18th, 2026.
The Young People’s Symphony Orchestra (YPSO) invites passionate young musicians to be part of an unforgettable season of music, growth, and camaraderie. As the oldest youth orchestra in California, our mission is to guide young musicians to excellence in an orchestral setting while fostering lifelong friendships and skills.
In the 2026-27 season, YPSO musicians will perform in four subscription concerts, be a part of an immersive orchestra retreat in Carmel Valley, and celebrate our 90th Anniversary.