Youth Symphony

• Full orchestra: strings, winds, brass, percussion, and harp

• Advanced experience level

• Typically ages 13–18

• Rehearses Sundays, 5:30–8:00 PM, September–May

• Rehearsals held at the University of Memphis

• Four concerts annually, including the annual Side-by-Side concert with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra

• Annual Concerto Competition featuring student soloists at the Finale Concert

The Youth Symphony is the flagship ensemble of the Memphis Youth Symphony Program, bringing together many of the Mid-South’s most talented and dedicated young musicians for an advanced full orchestra experience.

Conducted by Kyle Dickson, the ensemble performs major orchestral repertoire spanning classical masterworks to contemporary compositions. Students rehearse and perform in a rigorous yet supportive environment that emphasizes musical excellence, collaboration, discipline, and artistic growth.

Youth Symphony students are expected to:

• Demonstrate advanced technical and musical skills

• Prepare music independently at a high level

• Contribute mature musicianship, leadership, and professionalism

• Balance significant practicing responsibilities outside of rehearsal

• Rehearse and perform with a high degree of artistry and musical independence

Repertoire in YS is significantly more advanced than in MYSP’s other full orchestra ensembles and often includes major symphonic works and challenging orchestral literature. The ensemble’s fast-paced 2.5-hour rehearsals mirror many collegiate and pre-professional ensemble settings and are best suited for highly committed musicians who are ready for an intensive orchestral experience.

Each season, Youth Symphony members have the extraordinary opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside professional musicians during the annual Side-by-Side concert with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. The ensemble also presents the annual Concerto Competition, featuring outstanding student soloists at the Finale Concert.

Beyond the concert stage, Youth Symphony musicians serve as ambassadors for orchestral music throughout the region through performances at venues such as the Orpheum Theatre and community outreach events across the Mid-South.

Many Youth Symphony members are recognized through All-West and All-State ensembles and continue their musical studies at leading universities, conservatories, and music programs nationwide.