The primary purpose of the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra is education. All programs reflect a commitment to provide young musicians with the opportunity to strengthen their musical talents and develop an appreciation of the arts through classical music.

Members develop discipline, teamwork and leadership skills through rehearsal and performance with peers who are serious about music. Many members go on to become professional musicians, music teachers, doctors, engineers, and other professions. All leave FSYO with a love and appreciation of music that will enrich the rest of their adult lives.

Based in the John & Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center in Orlando’s Loch Haven Park, the FSYO has three full orchestras, a training orchestra, cello choir, and chamber ensembles comprised of some of the most accomplished young musicians from a nine-county area of Central Florida. Students are selected by audition to obtain their position in the orchestras that rehearse or perform weekly during the school year.

The FSYO has been recognized as one of the top youth orchestras in the United States by audition selection as one of six orchestras to participate in the National Youth Orchestra Festival held in June 2002. This is a prestigious biannual festival sponsored by the American Symphony Orchestra League and was hosted in Sarasota by the Florida West Coast Symphony Orchestra.

The Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra (FSYO) serves young musicians by providing:

• talented professional conductors and coaches
• master classes and sectionals with local professional musicians and guest artists
• an opportunity to perform in an orchestra with a peer group serious about their music
• participation in orchestra concerts, chamber ensembles, tours
• an opportunity for youth to give back to their community through their love of music

The FSYO serves the community by providing:

• a resource for children of potential employees considering a move to Central Florida
• vitalization of downtown and business areas through performances and benefit concerts
• music education to ensure the future of professional orchestras
• promotion and excellent public relations locally and abroad
• enriched educational and cultural experiences for future leaders and the public
• development of audiences and arts patrons of all ages