California Youth Symphony

<br/> Founded in 1952, the California Youth Symphony has taught thousands of students and includes two full symphony orchestras -- the CYS Orchestra and the CYS Associate Orchestra, as well as a percussion ensemble and six additional groups for younger musicians. The 2008-2009 membership of the California Youth Symphony includes more than 500 of the greater Bay Area's most promising young musicians ranging in age from 9 to 18 and representing more than 100 elementary, middle and high schools. As the state's first independent youth orchestra, the California Youth Symphony has conducted 15 international summer tours and it is one of the largest and most influential youth symphony organizations in the United States. The Orchestra's concerts draw thousands of people annually and features a challenging repertoire. Many of the Orchestra's alumni have gone on to pursue solo careers or have joined major orchestras in the United States. Members are chosen at auditions held each May and membership is open to any musician high school age or younger.