When you join MYS:
You will learn from some of the finest conductors and music educators in Minnesota (with over 100 years of combined experience).
You will work with other outstanding musicians from all over Minnesota and western Wisconsin and from a wide variety of backgrounds, creating deeper connections to your community and the wider world.
You will get top-notch orchestral training to achieve outstanding artistry in performance, and individualized attention from our artistic and administrative staff.
MYS also provides:
Financial assistance (no qualifying student is turned away)
Sectional coaching with professional musicians
Weekly classes in theory and music history
Three major concerts annually and community concerts at various metropolitan locations
Retreat days for each orchestra
“Playing an instrument is having the trait of being consistent with something. When you’re consistent, you improve—and that’s true for almost anything in life.”
Sage, tuba
Upcoming Events
Spring Concert
The Minnesota Youth Symphonies will present our season’s grand finale as all five MYS orchestras take the stage at Orchestra Hall. MYS chamber ensembles will provide pre-concert lobby music from 1:00–1:30 PM. Continuing the season-long exploration of American composers, the program will feature selections including “America” and “Mambo” from Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story, Florence Price’s Adoration, John Williams’s “Imperial March” from Star Wars, and Philip Glass’s Heroes Symphony, inspired by the David Bowie album. The concert will also showcase a combined performance by the Wind and Philharmonic Orchestras. Join us in celebrating graduating seniors in their final performance with MYS.
April 19, 2026
2:00 PM
Orchestra Hall
1111 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
2026–27 Season Auditions
Audition registration is now open for the upcoming season! This is an opportunity for string, woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians to audition for placement for the 2026–27 season. Auditions for all orchestras will be held in-person, with an option to audition by video recording for Wind or String Orchestra. Students unavailable on the above audition date should still register; we will contact you to schedule an alternate auditIon date.
June 12 & 13, 2026
Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
130 S Macalester St
St. Paul, MN 55105
MYS Summer Extravaganza
Registration is now open! Join us for this vibrant and immersive weeklong day camp for orchestral musicians entering grades 3–HS grad. Experience full rehearsals, sectionals, music history classes, and guest artist performances. The week culminates in an informal concert on Friday at 12:00 PM that is open to the public.
June 15–19, 2026
Janet Wallace Fine Arts Center
130 S Macalester St
St. Paul, MN 55105
Did you know?
MYS musicians travel from over 65 cities across the Twin Cities, Greater Minnesota, and Western Wisconsin. From near and far, they come together each week to share their talents and love of music.
“MYS has surrounded my son with individuals full of grace, enthusiasm, and talent, creating a rich musical setting that blesses our family, inspiring his passion for playing cello and connecting us with an extraordinary community.”
Stacy, parent
Testimonials
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“MYS is such a wonderful music community offering positive energy and encouraging musicianship."
Symphony Orchestra parent
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“MYS is an amazing organization that sets high expectations for young musicians in an environment that helps them grow and achieve.”
Repertory Orchestra parent
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“MYS is is a great organization that fosters artistic and interpersonal development. The staff and leadership are very dedicated to the students and their development. I love working with them.”
String Orchestra parent
Help us continue making amazing music…
Like most youth orchestra programs, tuition and ticket sales only cover 50% of our total costs. We rely on financial contributions to support our work with students.
Your gift is 100% tax deductible, and creates opportunities for the next generation of young musicians. Donate today!