NYYS Programs

Innovative Programs for Talented, Young Musicians

Programs Overview

Our Programs

The New York Youth Symphony is one of the most awarded youth programs of its kind in the nation, including the 2022 Grammy Award for Best Orchestral Performance - Classical. It is recognized for its inspiring and empowering performance opportunities for talented young musicians. Founded in 1963 as an orchestra to showcase the metropolitan area’s most gifted musicians ages 10-22, its activities have since grown to encompass programs in chamber music, conducting, composition, jazz, Crescendo Orchestra and musical theater songwriting with performances at world class venues including Carnegie Hall and Jazz at Lincoln Center. Through its commissioning program, First Music, the NYYS has commissioned over 170 works from young composers since 1984.

Symphony Orchestra

With its sophisticated programming, performances in one of the world's greatest concert halls, the NYYS's Symphony Orchestra sets itself apart as one of the finest in the nation.

Chamber Music

The Chamber Music Program is an excellent opportunity for players to enhance their musical abilities, improve their performance confidence, and develop interpersonal skills within small group settings.

Jazz

NYYS Jazz is a 17-member ensemble dedicated to studying, rehearsing, and performing classic big band jazz music, featuring world-renowned soloists and new works by emerging jazz composers.

Composition

The Composition Program is the first series of workshops in the country for young musicians to explore the world of composition and orchestration.

Musical Theater Songwriting

Led by Director Michael Kooman, the NYYS Musical Theater Songwriting Program is designed to lead students through a range of musical theater songwriting processes.

Conducting

The Robert L. Poster Apprentice Conducting Program gives aspiring conductors the opportunity to study the art through technique, score analysis, podium time, and observation under the guidance of the Orchestra's Music Director and Assistant Conductor.

First Music

The Jon Deak First Music Commissioning Program is NYYS's commissioning competition for America's best emerging orchestra, chamber music, and jazz composers under the age of 30.

Crescendo Orchestra

Launched at the start of the 2023/24 season, Crescendo Orchestra is a 44-piece string orchestra for New York City residents ages 10-18 years old.

Upcoming Concerts

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All Tix Available Now

15

ASCAP awards for adventuresome programming

~300

students annually

100%

graduating seniors attending college or conservatories

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Ways to Support

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Unparalleled Performances

Experience the result of all the hard work and practice that goes into our concerts.

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