Serving the community in performance and education has always been at the forefront of the Orchestra from the very beginning. Our flourishing Youth Orchestra Program provides an environment where our young musicians can seek challenges and pursue musical excellence. Now celebrating its 41st season, one of the longest running programs in the state, the GBSYO serves approximately 200 young musicians from Brown, Calumet Door, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Oconto, Outagamie, and Shawano counties. Musicians range in age from eight to eighteen, are chosen in annual auditions, and comprise three orchestras -

• The String Orchestra – taking entry-level musicians from the beginning of their playing careers to the next stage.
• The Philharmonia – offering young musicians their first opportunity to play in a full orchestra.
• The Youth Symphony – skills are finely tuned and the young performers become the "complete" player.

With an innovative training program, members of the GBSO coach the members of the GBSYO in Sunday afternoon rehearsals followed by full orchestral rehearsals with their respective ensembles. Additionally, members of the GBSYO have the opportunity to meet and work with GBSO guest artists, attend GBSO concerts free of charge, perform in chamber music ensembles, and participate in a Leadership Conference, a Concerto Competition, and a unique composition project that culminates in performances of the student works.

Our concerts at various venues throughout Green Bay showcase the incredible talents of our musicians. Speaking engagements by our Music Director bring new life, energy, and inspiration to the works we perform each season.