The Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras, or JSYO, is a youth orchestra based in Jacksonville, Florida.
Overview
Founded in 1993 under the Jacksonville Symphony Association, the JSYO enrolls more than 400 young musicians between the ages of 7 and 22, who are admitted through competitive auditions. The JSYO has six levels of ensembles – two full symphonies and four levels of string ensembles – that vary by repertoire and technical advancement. Regional satellite sites now offer beginning to intermediate ensembles for students musicians in the early stages of their musical instruction. Jump Start Strings – 1st year beginning string students, conducted by David Hwanmin Song Foundations Strings – 2nd year beginning string students, conducted by Rose Francis and John Wieland Encore Strings – young string students, conducted by Helen Morin Premiere Strings – advancing string students, conducted by Helen Morin Repertory Orchestra – intermediate full symphony orchestra, conducted by Deanna Tham Philharmonic – advanced full symphony orchestra, conducted by Deanna Tham Chamber Music Program – available to qualified Philharmonic and Repertory musicians Communities in Schools Program – available at select elementary schools, conducted by John Wieland And Patrice Evans
Musical instruction
The JSYO offers the following opportunities:
In-depth study of classical repertoire
Direction by professional conductors: as of 2018, the current conductor is Deanna Tham. Exposure to nationally recognized soloists through their affiliation with the Jacksonville Symphony Coaching sessions with Jacksonville Symphony musicians Outreach performances in the community Chamber ensemble training and performances Young Artists Competition Performances in the Jacoby Symphony Hall
Performances
Usually, a JSYO season consists of three main concerts and a chamber ensemble concert given by members of the Philharmonic Orchestra. The season culminates with a joint performance with the Jacksonville Symphony at the Major/Minor Concert, bringing teachers and students to the stage together for a side-by-side performance. Winners of the JSYO Young Artists Competition have the honor of soloing at this concert.