WYO Awards

At the Sounds of Spring Concert in May, the youth orchestra presents awards to celebrate the dedication and achievements of its members. These awards not only motivate young musicians but also foster a sense of community and appreciation within the orchestra.

Julie Banton Award

The Julie Banton Awards are awarded annually to members of each Youth Orchestra who have consistently exhibited the following criteria throughout the season: regular attendance, positive attitude, participation in orchestra-related activities, as well as cooperative, helpful, supportive and friendly behaviour toward fellow musicians.

Julie Banton was a longtime member of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, holding the position of Assistant Principal Cellist. She was a passionate cello teacher and taught many students who went on to illustrious careers as performers and teachers. She was a huge supporter of the Winnipeg Youth Orchestras, and worked tirelessly with our organization. This award recognizes musicians who participate with Julie’s enthusiasm.

Long Service Awards

The Long Service Award honours musicians who have demonstrated dedication to the WYO. The final winners will be considered and decided by the three orchestra conductors from all eligible musicians based on merit. The Long Service award is presented to musicians who:

• Have been a member of the Winnipeg Youth Orchestras for a combined total of at least six (6) years.
• Are in their final year of high school (grade 12).
• Recipients can receive this award only once.

Scholarship Competition

Each year, the Winnipeg Youth Orchestras sponsors the WYO Adjudicated Scholarships Competition in early December. There are three levels of competition (Junior, Intermediate and Senior Divisions) and three scholarships awards for each division.

The competition is open to any WYO member in good standing. Competitors perform a piece at the appropriate level for two experienced judges who will adjudicate each performance based on several criteria including accuracy, intonation, phrasing, dynamics, musicality and overall presentation.

The WYO Scholarships Competition is an excellent performance opportunity for students.  All orchestra members are encouraged to participate, especially those who may not as yet have had the experience of performing in an adjudicated competition. Each competitor receives a written adjudication mailed to them after the competition.

The first, second and third place winners of each division are announced within a few days of the event. Awards and prizes are presented to the recipients during the Sounds of Spring concert in May. The Scholarship winners in the Senior Division are often featured as soloists with the Winnipeg Youth Symphony Orchestra.  Congratulations to all the past Scholarships Competition winners.

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