Overview

Vermont Youth Strings emphasizes playing together as a primary element of music education. Our springboard ensemble, this string orchestra plays hard – in rehearsal and on the Ft. Ethan Allen playground – and young musicians develop an appreciation for their own individual contributions to orchestral playing, in harmony with the contributions of their peers. Led by VYO Alum Ace Ali, this is our foundational auditioned ensemble and they attend a 2-day Mini-Camp in August, present two concerts each year, and perform in local schools. 

Auditions

We hold auditions for VYS twice a year & welcome you to join us! Mid-year auditions are held in December, for new students only, with accepted students joining us in January. Annual auditions are held in May, for all current and new students, for the following season that begins with Mini-Camp in August.

Audition Information

Schedule

Rehearsals (2026–27)

  • Sundays 3:30pm–5:45pm at Elley-Long Music Center

Concerts

  • Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 4:30pm, University Mall in South Burlington
  • Sunday, December 13, 2026, 4:00pm OrchestraPalooza Concert
  • Sunday, April 11, 2027, 5:00pm, Elley-Long Music Center

Attendance Policy

The VYOA believes that full participation by all members of each ensemble leads to greater success and more fun! Missing VYS Camp counts as 1 absence for the Fall semester. Students who miss more than 2 rehearsals per semester will be asked to check-in with Ace Ali to make sure they are comfortable with their performance repertoire. The success of VYS is dependent upon the full participation of all members!

Tuition & Financial Aid

2026-2027 Vermont Youth Strings Tuition: $925

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. You can find the 2026-2027 online financial aid application here.

Apply

Questions

Contact Myriam Bouti with any questions about registration.

“Every year, VYS is a wonderful experience for me! Each year, our returning members develop leadership skills as experienced veterans of the ensemble, and I always look forward to meeting our new players in the orchestra.”

Ace Ali, conductor