Overview

VYO is our flagship orchestra, composed of dedicated young musicians from across the region. Led by music director, Dr. Mark Alpizar, they perform four formal concerts each year, as well as numerous small-group performances. VYO repertoire features full symphonies, world premieres, and music from non-traditional sources, selected specifically for the year’s musicians to provide the most challenging musical experience. Members of this ensemble have special opportunities to travel, on international tours as an orchestra and performing in small ensembles throughout the state.

Auditions

Auditions for new and current musicians are held annually in May at the Elley-Long Music Center. Audition requirements are posted by February 1. Musicians must prepare 2 minutes of a solo, a scale and arpeggio, and an orchestra excerpt from that year’s list. Each musician will also be asked to sight read.

Mid-year auditions are occasionally held when there are openings; details will be posted in this space when they are available.

Audition Information

Schedule

Rehearsals (2026–2027)

  • Sundays 12:15 pm to 3:15 pm at Elley-Long Music Center

Concerts

  • Sunday, October 18, 2026, 3:00 pm, The Flynn
  • Sunday, December 13, 2026, 4:00 pm, OrchestraPalooza Concert at The Flynn
  • Sunday, January 31, 2027, 3:00 pm, The Flynn
  • Sunday, May 2, 2027, 3:00 pm, The Flynn

Attendance Policy

The VYOA believes that full participation by all members of each ensemble leads to greater success and better camaraderie! Musicians are allowed two rehearsal absences per concert cycle for illness or an unavoidable schedule conflict. If musicians must miss more than two rehearsals, they will be asked to meet with the conductor as a check-in to make sure they are progressing sufficiently.

Tuition & Financial Aid

2026-2027 Vermont Youth Orchestra Tuition: $2,000

Annual tuition fees for participation in the VYOA vary. Please note that tuition is non-refundable after the first rehearsal.

Financial Aid

The VYOA is committed to ensuring that no child is discouraged from participating due to financial circumstances. Need-based financial aid is available to all qualifying families demonstrating an adjusted gross income up to $120,000. Learn more about applying for financial aid below – financial aid applications should be submitted by June 27, 2026.

Apply

Questions

Contact Art DeQuasie with any questions about registration.

“Year after year, I am amazed at the extraordinary musical excellence of this orchestra. We’re not just the best youth orchestra in our region, we’re on the cutting edge of our field. These young musicians tackle major symphonic works by beloved composers, we commission and premiere brand-new works, our senior soloists display true artistry, we perform throughout Vermont, we tour the world – and we have so much fun doing it all!”

Dr. Mark Alpízar, Conductor