Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras
Orchestras ~
Founded in 1944, the Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras (SSYO) are two merit-based orchestral ensembles sponsored by the Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) for talented young musicians from over 40 area communities.
The Springfield Youth Sinfonia, an introductory orchestra, develops ensemble skills; the Springfield Youth Orchestra, an advanced orchestra, cultivates standard orchestral repertoire.
Conductors ~

Marsha Hassett, a music educator, cellist, and violin-maker, has been the conductor of the Springfield Youth Sinfonia since 1998.

Jonathan Lam, a violinist and private music teacher, has been the conductor of the Springfield Youth Orchestra since 2007.
Rehearsals ~
The youth orchestras rehearse on most Sunday evenings during the school year at Holyoke Community College. Through weekly rehearsals and their own private lessons, musicians master challenging orchestral repertoire.

Benefits of Membership in SSYO ~
Youth orchestra musicians and their families enjoy many benefits, such as:
- great repertoire
- fellowship with other talented young musicians
- complimentary tickets and discounted tickets to SSO concerts
- concerto competition
- educational retreats or trips
- sectionals/coaching sessions with members of the SSO
- master classes

Musicians' Responsibilities ~
In order to strive for and attain musical excellence in rehearsals and concerts, each musician is expected to:
- Take private weekly lessons
- Practice diligently
- Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality at rehearsal
- Commit to full season participation
- Participate in school music programs (where offered)

Fees/Tuition 2011-2012 Season ~
Audition Fee $25
Annual Tuition $350 for 1st family member
$250 for each additional family member
(Early Bird Special if tuition is paid in full by
September 1, 2011: $300 for 1st Family Member;
$200 for each additional family member).

SSYO Scholarships/Internships ~
Limited financial assistance is available through full or partial scholarships or Student Internships (stagehands and music librarians) which involve a stipend worth 50% of the tuition.
Looking for more information?
For more information or an audition appointment, call Hillarie O'Toole, Youth Orchestras Manager, at 413-733-0636, ext. 19 or by email Hillarie O'Toole
Sponsors


&
United Bank Foundation
Youth Symphony Fund
is the official season sponsor of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.
The SSYO is funded in part by the Amherst Cultural Council, Belchertown Cultural Council,
Westfield Cultural Council
, and the

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