Our Mission
The Louisville Youth Orchestra fuels the passion and growth of young musicians through extraordinary musical experiences.
Founded in 1958, the Louisville Youth Orchestra (LYO) is a nonprofit organization that offers an engaging and enriching instrumental ensemble experience to nurture a lifelong love of music. The LYO currently serves over 400 students from 16 counties throughout Kentucky and southern Indiana. We love creating community among young musicians and bringing them together based on a shared desire to learn and perform exciting instrumental music.
The LYO is an inclusive and affirming organization that works to lift up all members of its diverse community.
Orchestras & Ensembles
There are ensembles for all levels of preparation, from beginner to advanced.
A highly qualified conductor leads each orchestra and ensemble.
Symphony Orchestra – The most advanced full orchestra of the LYO.
Repertory Orchestra – Intermediate to advanced full orchestra.
Concert Orchestra – Intermediate string orchestra.
Serenade Orchestra – Entry-level string orchestra.
Horizons Ensembles – Developing brass and woodwind ensembles.
Symphonic and Concert Winds – A unique education opportunity for advanced-level woodwind, brass, and percussion chamber ensembles.
Percussion Ensemble – Students of varying abilities can participate in the percussion ensemble; advanced students may also be placed into the percussion sections of Symphony and Repertory Orchestras.
Master Artists Chamber Players – Chamber music opportunities for advanced students of the LYO, led by performing artists from NouLou Chamber Players.
Membership
Eligibility and Auditions
Membership in the LYO is open to young musicians through the age of 20. All members must audition each year prior to placement. Entry is based on proficiency rather than age.
Cost
The membership fee for 2024-2025 is $575 total. Tuition Assistance is available to assist with the cost of membership and is awarded on the basis of need. There is also a $100 discount for each additional participating member within a family.
Rehearsals
Rehearsals for our 10 ensembles take place on Sunday afternoons at the St Matthews Pavilion and the Youth Performing Arts School.
Requirements
Presto! Strings
The Louisville Youth Orchestra also provides weekly beginner strings classes in two Title I elementary schools. These Presto Strings classes are designed to break down barriers to strings training at an early age through completely free classes and the use of a free instrument.
