About the RPYO

The Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra is a symphonic orchestra comprised of more than one hundred of the most accomplished middle- and high-school musicians from over thirty schools in the greater Rochester area. Sponsored by the Education Department of the RPO, the RPYO was founded in 1970 to provide highly enriching musical ensemble experiences to very accomplished young musicians from varied backgrounds.

Each year the RPYO presents three full programs of major symphonic works, including a Side-by-Side Concert in Eastman Theatre with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, the RPYO performs in special outreach concerts, enjoys exchanges with other youth orchestras and undertakes a major tour every three years. During the autumn months, members of the RPYO also meet as a Chamber Orchestra to explore the repertory for smaller orchestra.

Musicians are admitted through highly competitive annual auditions each spring. They rehearse throughout the school year and perform under the musical direction of Dr. David Harman and with coaching by members of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

Applauded for its very high level of artistic achievement, the RPYO facilitates the musical, personal, and social development of its musicians within a challenging and supportive environment. Participation in the RPYO provides an excellent musical foundation for future professional or amateur careers in music, as testified by the large number of RPYO alumni playing in professional and semi-professional symphony orchestras and chamber groups throughout the country.