The Owensboro Symphony, through its sponsorship of the Owensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra program provides specialized training to more than 100 talented young musicians each year. The Youth Orchestra program is dedicated to building on the success of school programs,  by offering outstanding students music that continues to challenge them in their growth. A high percentage of students exiting the Youth Orchestra have been offered college music scholarships and continue to perform beyond their high school graduation.

The program consists of two performing ensembles: the Youth Orchestra, a full orchestra experience and a String Orchestra. Participants represent  every local and many regional high school and middle school bands and orchestras. The Youth Orchestra welcomes adults and college students who wish to continue their career as instrumentalists at a very high level.

Rehearsals / Attendance

The String Orchestra rehearses from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. every Monday when school is in session. The Youth Orchestra rehearses  from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. on the same calendar. During September and October, wind and percussion players do not join the full orchestra rehearsal until 7:00 p.m. in order to accommodate  school  marching band schedules.

Attendance at every rehearsal is expected. Unexcused absences will affect membership in the Youth Orchestra. School ensembles always take precedence in attendance.  Communication is extremely important to ensure a quality experience for every member. Members are encouraged to communicate with their directors regarding  questions and issues regarding attendance.

Contact Information for Directors

Youth Orchestra Director, Shaun Baxley
Email Shaun Baxley

String Orchestra Director, Wade Wiggins
Email Wade Wiggins

The directors are not available for phone calls during the day, please use text or email only.

Tuition

Annual tuition for the String Orchestra is $150. Tuition for the Youth Orchestra is $225. Need-based scholarships are available on a limited basis. Forms for scholarships should be submitted no later than mid-September for each year in the youth orchestras.

Parent Involvement / Meetings

Communication with parents is extremely important to the success of the Youth Orchestra program. Parents meet from 5:30 p.m.to 5:45 p.m. each month.   An email reminder will be sent to parents the week prior to the meeting.

For additional information regarding the Youth Orchestra, policies or scholarships, contact the Youth Orchestra Coordinator, Greg Olson by phone at 270.684.0661 or by email.