Philharmonia East
Beginning string students from the East Metro are challenged to excel in a fun environment while building a foundation for learning how to play in an orchestra in with other young musicians.
Overview
Beloved conductor and string pedagogy expert Mary Sorlie strikes a winning balance of fun and rigor in GTCYS’ entry-level string orchestras, Philharmonia East and Philharmonia West. Beginning string players have an average of 2 to 4 years’ experience, and develop vital ensemble skills that foster individual growth, while learning how to listen and watch, and understand orchestral vocabulary. Repertoire is primarily first position, and students must know detaché and staccato bow strokes.
2025-26 Highlights
- Learn from Mary Sorlie, a GTCYS alum, professional violinist, and award-winning teacher
- Perform 2 concerts at Orchestra Hall in November and May, livestreamed for free
- Share 2 free community concerts
- Explore a challenging array of music from different styles and artists
- Enjoy 2 half-day retreats in September and January
- Work with professional musicians during sectionals throughout the year
- Connect with youth from across the region through social activities like treat nights and optional leadership activities
Rehearsals: September – May
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00pm
NEW LOCATION: House of Hope Presbyterian Church – Sanctuary
797 Summit Ave, St. Paul, MN 55105
Free parking in the House of Hope parking lot across Portland Ave. Enter through the Door 1 in the circle drive.
Carpool lists are provided so interested families can coordinate ridesharing.
Online Calendar
Watch a Philharmonia East Performance
Enjoy their live performance of Dueling French Dances by Claude Gervaise, arr. Deborah Baker Monday at Orchestra Hall.
Tuition & Assistance
Philharmonia Tuition: $950 for the full season.* Students joining 2nd semester pay 60%.
Thanks to the generous support of our community, tuition amounts are significantly lower than the true cost of our programs, offering families a high-quality experience for the investment.
*The $100 retreat fee, which was charged separately in previous years, is now included in the overall school-year tuition amount and there is no additional deposit. We hope this makes things simpler and more convenient for families.
Payment Options: Families can pay in full or in monthly installments.
Sibling Discount: We offer a sibling discount of $100 per additional child.
Tuition Assistance:
- Need-based tuition assistance is available to make GTCYS affordable for everyone – no student is turned away due to financial need.
- Families who receive 2025-26 season assistance can pay their remaining balance or begin a monthly payment plan when enrolling.
- We are still accepting late tuition assistance applications from families who missed the June 4 deadline.
- Learn more about assistance and contact miranda@gtcys.org with questions.
Commitment
Each GTCYS orchestra is a community of musicians, each of whom is equally important to the group’s progress and success. Students are accountable to their orchestra peers and should honor their commitment by consistently attending GTCYS activities, practicing GTCYS music 10 minutes a day, follow all policies outlined in the Musician’s Handbook.
Important Links
- Musician’s Handbook: Includes info like participation policies, concert attire, and what to bring to rehearsals
- Attendance Policy: GTCYS’ policy balances flexibility with rigor; be sure to review it!
- Absence Form: Complete online in advance if a student will miss a GTCYS activity
Auditions
In order to determine which GTCYS orchestra students are best suited for, every student must audition each year to participate. Auditions are conducted by a recorded video, and include scales, a short solo, and prepared excerpts. Previous participation in GTCYS does not guarantee placement. Learn more about auditions.