Ensemble placement is determined through the audition process. MYSP staff strives to place students into ensembles where they will be appropriately challenged while continuing to grow confidently and successfully.

Ensemble changes during the season are rare and generally not encouraged, as consistency is important for both individual students and the overall ensemble. Reassigning students after the season begins can disrupt ensemble balance, repertoire preparation, seating structure, and the musical continuity that develops throughout the year.

MYSP works carefully during the audition and placement process to place students in the ensemble where they are most likely to succeed, grow, and contribute positively over the course of the full season.

In limited situations, staff may determine that a different placement would better support a student’s musical or personal development. These decisions are made thoughtfully and only when there is a clear educational benefit for both the student and the ensemble.

Each ensemble is designed for a different stage of musical and technical development. Placement is based primarily on a student’s current playing level, ensemble readiness, musical maturity, and overall preparedness — not simply age or grade level.

While students in certain ensembles may often fall within similar age ranges, there is no strict age-based progression through MYSP ensembles. Some younger students may be ready for advanced groups, while older students may benefit most from an ensemble focused on strengthening foundational skills.

• Prelude Strings (PS) focuses on beginning ensemble skills and foundational musicianship.

• Intermezzo Orchestra (IO) develops intermediate technical and musical skills.

• String Orchestra (SO) is an advanced string-only ensemble for highly skilled string players.

• Repertory Orchestra (RO) is often a student’s first full symphony orchestra experience.

• Youth Symphony (YS) is MYSP’s most advanced full orchestra.

MYSP strives to place students in the ensemble where they will be appropriately challenged while continuing to grow confidently and successfully as musicians. Detailed ensemble descriptions are available on the ensemble page.

Concert Band is designed for developing wind, brass, and percussion students building intermediate ensemble skills. Wind Ensemble is MYSP’s most advanced band ensemble and is intended for highly skilled and dedicated musicians.

This varies by ensemble. Prelude students often have at least one year of instruction, while advanced ensembles require significant technical and musical preparation.

Students are expected to practice consistently outside of rehearsal. Advanced ensembles require a greater level of independent preparation.

Yes. MYSP offers chamber music opportunities, sectionals, masterclasses, and coaching throughout the season.

MYSP ensembles are led by an outstanding team of experienced conductors, educators, and professional musicians from across the Mid-South. Many of our conductors are active performers, school directors, university faculty members, and leaders within the regional music community.

Each ensemble is led by a conductor whose experience and teaching style are carefully matched to the age and developmental level of the students in that group.

MYSP conductors are committed not only to musical excellence, but also to creating a supportive and encouraging environment where students can grow as musicians, leaders, and individuals. Conductors work closely with students throughout the season to develop technical skills, ensemble awareness, artistry, discipline, and confidence.

You can learn more about each conductor on the staff pages of our website.