General Information
Launching at the start of the 2026-27 season, the OSYO String Orchestra serves motivated string players ages 10-22, but exceptional younger students may also be admitted. This program prepares intermediate- and advanced-intermediate-level musicians for the demands of our flagship ensemble, the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra (OSYO), through focused, high-level orchestral training. Students are expected to be enrolled in and actively participate in their school’s music programs when available, and to receive private instrument instruction.
Students will study and prepare inclusive and thoughtful repertoire – as well as standard works from the classical canon.
Benefits
Membership in OSYO String Orchestra includes:
- Three performance opportunities per year
- Sectional rehearsals and masterclasses coached by professional performing musicians
- Side-by-Side performance opportunity with the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra
Rehearsals
Rehearsals are on Sunday afternoons from 3:45 pm to 6:00 pm at Amador Valley High School, Pleasanton.
Concerts
Three Saturday evening concerts per season at Valley Center for the Performing Arts in Oakland at 7:30 pm. Dress Rehearsal/Sound Check precedes the Concert.
2026-27 Season – Concert Dates
- Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Saturday, February 6, 2027
- Saturday, May 8, 2027
Parents’ Obligations
Parents’ obligations include helping students fulfill their musical responsibilities to the Orchestra by encouraging at-home practice, 100% attendance, and promptness and courtesy at all times. Each Youth Orchestra family will be asked to volunteer for activities and donate 10 hours each year to the Oakland Symphony Youth Orchestra’s parent committees. Parents are also expected to participate in the Youth Orchestra fundraising activities.
Annual Cost
Tuition in full (or completed financial aid application) is due upon acceptance, and tuition is not refundable. Note that tuition covers only a portion of our operating budget.
Financial Assistance
No qualified musician will be excluded because of financial need. Financial assistance is available in the form of outright scholarship grants, deferred payment plans, or fundraising opportunities. If you are a returning musician who has received assistance in the past, you must reapply.
Auditions
Membership in the OSYO String Orchestra is open to highly qualified players of orchestral instruments from Bay Area schools through the annual audition process.