It includes over 100 musicians participating in 3 different orchestras. This starts with the Youth Strings (strings only), and continues on to the progressively more advanced orchestras, the Youth Concert and the Youth Symphony, made up of a full orchestral complement of strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion
This is where the big effort musicians put into learning an instrument really pays off… where they get the chance to share music and music making. The WYO gives musicians a chance to meet friends and build a sense of community around a common interest. It’s one of the best opportunities to develop confidence and musical skills, to perform, and to get expert instruction on ensemble playing from professional musicians.
Any youth playing an orchestral instrument at a level of about Grade 5 Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) or higher. The age range of the three levelled orchestras spans from primary to secondary school students as well as some in their early years of post-secondary.
Each orchestra rehearses one evening per week. Rehearsals are 2 to 2½ hours depending on the group. The orchestras start rehearsing in September and finish in early May, with breaks that align with school and statutory holidays (such as Thanksgiving, Winter and Spring breaks). Musicians are expected to practice their music outside of rehearsal time and come prepared to play.
The WYO has used a variety of large venues (such as school gyms, music rooms, community centres and churches). These can change from year to year depending on size of group and the cost and availability of venues. The organization looks for space that is comfortable, safe, affordable and accessible.
The WYO typically holds a concert showcasing all three orchestras in late November or early December, and another one in early May. Another concert usually takes place in February showcasing exclusively the Youth Symphony Orchestra, often with one or several soloists from their ranks. Each orchestra also participates in other performances throughout the year more tailored to their specific niches.
In addition to the three core concerts, each orchestra has more performance opportunities. This includes playing at schools, in communities outside Winnipeg, at facilities such as personal care homes, and for special events. Other activities have included weekend music retreats, touring regions of Manitoba, collaborations with youth or community orchestras in other cities, and performances with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO). Musicians are also periodically offered the chance to participate in masterclasses with touring soloists and regularly receive sectional instruction from WSO and other professional musicians.
Parents/caregivers are not required to stay at rehearsals, just to support their musicians to get to rehearsals prepared and on time. The WYO is a not-for-profit organization that could not run without a certain amount of volunteerism. We ask that someone from each musician’s family commits to volunteer at least once during the year. You can read about roles on the website; some only require a one-time commitment of a few hours, while others are very intensive and great opportunities for those interested in becoming more deeply involved.
Registration and auditions are held in the spring for the following season starting in September. Auditions give the conductors a chance to meet and hear each musician to make sure they are placed in an orchestra that best fits their age and ability, where they will be comfortable, have fun and be challenged. Musicians who miss the spring registration/audition but still want to join should contact the WYO administrator to find out about alternate arrangements.
There is a registration fee to participate in the WYO; see our Join page for up to date information. There is a cost for tickets to attend WYO concerts, as ticket sales help finance rental of a venue.
The WYO wishes to make the experience as accessible as possible. There are bursaries available for musicians who face challenges in covering registration or additional fees. Please see the process to apply for a bursary if the registration fee is a barrier.
We are a not-for-profit registered charitable organization overseen by a board. The WYO employs its conductors and a part time administrator, as well as a number of casually employed sectional instructors. Many activities needed for the orchestra to run are made possible solely through the efforts of our volunteers and board members. This model encourages a sense of community amongst musicians and families as well as keeping the costs of the WYO sustainable and affordable for participants.
We have been so thankful for the various Winnipeg Youth Orchestras. All four of our children have participated and so enjoyed their experience. It has been an amazing place for them to build community as well as grow as musicians. They have become better sight-readers and ensemble players – which means they enjoy music-making even more! We are truly thankful for the wonderful conductors and administrators who have made this experience so great for our family!”
Terrilee (parent)
