Out of School Opportunities

There are several opporutnities for playing in an orchestra or other ensemble outside of your school or school-related programs, however, most of these organizations are for serious and advanced players.

These groups include:

Prelude: The Arlington Youth Orchestral Program:
Jennifer Wade is the Conductor and co-founder of this new organization in Arlington. Featuring a string ensemble for students in 5th - 10th grade, the Prelude experience is designed to teach young musicians the finer skills required of playing in an ensemble, while improving sight-reading skills.


The American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras:
This organization is one of the premier youth orchestral programs in the country. It consists of four orchestras, accommodating a wide range of ages, instruments, repertoire, and skill levels.



The Washington Metropolitan Youth Orchestras:
In addition to offering an auditioned full symphonic experience for advanced platers, this organization boasts a newly formed string ensemble designed for young players (late elementary and middle school students).


The McLean Youth Orchestra:
MYO offers serious music students the opportunity to play in an accomplished orchestra while developing their musical skills. This program has an active exchange program, frequently traveling to Japan, or hosting Japanese students here in Northern Virginia.


DC Youth Orchestras:This organization offers the widest range of ensemble types: 6 orchestras, 3 wind ensembles, 2 string orchestras, and 1 Jazz ensemble.

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