Programs
With 11 school-year orchestras, 3 summer camps, and access programs, there’s a place for every interested student in the Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies, or GTCYS (pronounced git-seez).
We welcome students of all musical levels, ages 7–18, and offer generous financial assistance.
Summer camp registration is open! Sign up by June 9.
Auditions for our school-year orchestras will open in February 2026. Join our mailing list for updates!
Give GTCYS a try at one of our March open rehearsals—sit in, play along, meet peers and conductors, and experience the excitement of a GTCYS orchestra rehearsal.
School-Year Orchestras
GTCYS orchestras provide a rigorous and inspiring orchestral learning community for nearly 1,000 beginning to pre-professional string, woodwind, brass, and percussion students each year. Students rehearse weekly with top conductors, make new friends from across the region, and perform at iconic venues like Orchestra Hall.
Summer Camps
Dive into a week of music, friendship, and fun at GTCYS’ orchestra and brass camps, taught by our artistic staff. Camps offer inspiring music-making, engaging social activities, and the perfect chance to sharpen musical skills or experience GTCYS for the first time.
Percussion Seminar
Throughout the school year, GTCYS percussionists refine their musicianship with master classes from a professional musician, supplementing their orchestra experience at no extra cost. Learn more
Brass Seminar
Throughout the school year, GTCYS brass players refine their musicianship with master classes from professional musicians, supplementing their orchestra experience at no extra cost. Learn more
Woodwind Day
At this annual event, GTCYS woodwind players refine their musicianship with instrument-specific coaching from professional musicians, a master class, and social activities. Learn more
Chamber Music
GTCYS students play in small ensembles under the guidance of a professional chamber music coach, strengthening their musicianship by developing independence, leadership, listening, and ensemble skills through student-led rehearsals. Learn more
Student Leadership Team
In bi-monthly meetings, students from all 11 orchestras share ideas, collaborate, practice and develop leadership skills, and provide feedback to GTCYS staff and conductors. Learn more
International Tours
Every other year, GTCYS’ most advanced orchestra, Symphony, embarks on an international tour designed to give students a rich musical, cultural, and educational experience that reflects GTCYS’ mission of using music education to shape well-rounded individuals. Learn more
Access Programs
Harmony
A beginner string instruction program serving over 100 students at two St. Paul schools, Harmony breaks down barriers and uses music as a tool for social transformation. Learn more
Launch Lessons
GTCYS matches young Hispanic/Latinx and Black/African American students with financial need to a high-quality private instructor and pays the full cost of weekly lessons. Learn more
Pathway Musicians
With up to $6,000 of annual financial assistance per student and mentoring from a professional musician, this program helps Hispanic/Latinx and Black/African American students reach their fullest musical potential within GTCYS and beyond. Learn more