Sinfonia East
Brian Larson leads Sinfonia East, GTCYS’ first full orchestra with strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Students are actively engaged in an enjoyable and welcoming environment as they’re introduced to rehearsal, listening, and ensemble skills, while developing musical elements of style and phrasing. String players in Sinfonia East have an average of 3 to 5 years’ experience, and wind/brass/percussion students have an average of 1 to 4 years’ experience. Special artistic projects, sectionals, retreats, social activities, and extra opportunities provide a well-rounded experience which develops students’ musical, leadership, and lifelong skills.
2025-26 Highlights
- Rehearse weekly from September through mid-May with Brian Larson, cellist and director of orchestras at Chippewa Middle School (Mounds View)
- Perform at 4 exciting concerts—2 at Orchestra Hall and 2 community performances around the Twin Cities
- Explore a wide variety of challenging music, including special collaborations with local artists and other GTCYS orchestras
- Learn from professional musicians during sectionals, with special seminars for brass, woodwinds, and percussion
- Make friends from across the region through 2 half-day retreats, social activities like treat nights, and optional bonus activities like Student Leadership Team.
Tuition & Assistance
Sinfonia East Tuition: $1050 for the full season. Students joining 2nd semester pay 60%, $630. Learn more about tuition and financial assistance here.