Why Play with Metropolitan Youth Symphony?

MYS believes that quality, music education taught in a supportive but challenging environment gives every student musician the opportunity to be successful. At MYS, students receive the best education from committed mentors and access to the professional music community to develop and perform to their potential.

What will my child gain in MYS?

Your child will be part of a growing community of kids and families from 10 counties across the NW Oregon and SW Washington region. Students are brought together across neighborhoods, schools, ages and skills to learn, play and grow together. Your child will make new friends, develop their musicianship, perform throughout the region and have fun while doing it.

Is MYS a good fit for my child?

Yes! There is a place for everyone at MYS. Students need only 1 year of experience on their instrument to participate in our program, we offer full orchestra, strings, symphonic wind, flute, and jazz ensembles. We audition students for placement, not to find out whether or not they can play with us. Students audition for the ensemble that is the best fit for their skill level. Our artistic staff works hard to choose repertoire that is both fun and challenging to our young musicians.

Can my child play in multiple ensembles?

Yes! MYS is one of the largest youth orchestra programs in the nation and one of only a handful offering a jazz program. Students may play in as many ensembles as they are qualified.

What about other extracurricular and school music activities?

At MYS, we believe in promoting the skills and talents of our nearly 500 students. Saturday rehearsals let students continue to pursue their academic and extra-curricular activities, allowing students to learn from a variety of experiences.
MYS expects, and strongly encourages, all musicians to play in their school’s instrumental music program (band, orchestra, strings, jazz band) if such a program exists.  We excuse absences for school music activities.

What’s the cost of participating in MYS?

MYS relies on tuition to offer this dynamic program. However, we have a strong tuition assistance program and firmly believe that every child should have access to music regardless of their financial circumstances. We also offer installment payment plans.

Ready to learn more and register? Welcome to the our community.