Wichita Symphony Youth Orchestras

Founded in 1947, the Youth Symphony Orchestra is recognized as the foremost youth orchestra in central Kansas and features top student musicians and emerging orchestral masterpieces throughout Kansas and northern Oklahoma. Members perform a wide variety of standard and emerging orchestral masterpieces, including full symphonies and works by living composers. The Youth Symphony performs two concerts at Century II Concert Hall each season. Members meet in regular sectionals with professional community musicians and members of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra. The Youth Symphony is open to students entering grades 7 through 12.

Schedule:

The schedule is subject to change or move locations. Please check you weekly emails to ensure you stay up to date.

2526 WSYO Youth Symphony Schedule

Youth Symphony Retreat

Students in Youth Symphony get the exciting opportunity to paticipate in our yearly retreat. This is a seven hour event that involves rehearsals, sectionals and activities throughout the day. Lunch is provided. 

2526 WSYO Youth Symphony Retreat

Music

The music is here! Seating audition excerpts, violin placements, and all your materials are waiting for you in the Google Drive. Go take a peek! Cello and Bass music has not yet been bowed properly but is still available.

Access the Music Here!

Usher Director Application Now Open!

The WSYO Usher Program offers a unique opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to grow as leaders while supporting the Wichita Symphony’s concert operations. Selected Usher Directors will take on a paid leadership role, supervising usher teams at Symphony concerts, building real-world skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Applicants should be dedicated, reliable, and experienced members of the Usher Program.

Applications are due by 7:00 PM on Tuesday, September 16.

Apply Here: Usher Director Application 

Handbook:

All students and parents are asked to review the WSYO Handbook before the season begins. Familiarizing yourself with the program’s policies and procedures is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful season.

2526 WSYO Youth Wind Ensemble Schedule 

Parent Volunteers:

Want to be more involved this season? WSYO relies on the support of dedicated parents like you to help our young musicians thrive. There are many ways to pitch in throughout the year, check here for current opportunities!

Seating auditons: During the first few weeks of rehearsals, we will hold seating auditions. These typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours, and parent volunteers are needed to assist with check-in. Consider signing up for one of the available dates to support the WSYO program: 

SignUp Genius - Seating Auditions

Youth Talent Auditions

Students have the opportunity to audition in December for the Young Artist Concerto Competition or the Young Musician Award. Only seniors may participate in the Concerto Competition and could win a soloist spot for the Spring Concert. The Young Musician Award involves a scholarship for students to attend a summer music festival. Listed below are the Youth Talent Rules and Regulations and the Approved Repertoire for the Young Artist Concerto Competition.

2526 WSYO Youth Talent Rules and Regulations

2526 WSYO Youth Talent Auditions Approved Repertoire List