Washington Metropolitan Youth Orchestra
Washington Metropolitan Youth Orchestra is an auditioned symphonic orchestra for advanced student musicians. Led by maestro Ulysses S. James and Associate Conductor Henry Sgrecci, WMYO provides a unique opportunity for talented and committed young musicians to grow in an environment where the focus is on performance and collaboration. Based on this philosophy, WMYO offers students a musical atmosphere that inspires among its members a desire to make music for the rest of their lives.
WMYO is the orchestra-in-residence at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where it rehearses every Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and performs four concerts of challenging orchestral repertoire per year.
Why Choose WMYO?
At WMYO, the focus is on the music, not competition. WMYO concerts feature some of the most important, moving, and exciting works ever written for the symphony. Past performances have featured Copland’s Appalachian Spring, Holst’s The Planets, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5, Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, and Hindemich’s Symphonie Mathis der Mahler. WMYO musicians take on challenging music; this group is not for the faint of heart!
Once a student has successfully auditioned for his or her seat, the student is guaranteed a spot in the orchestra until graduation from high school. That’s right, annual reapplications are not required. Musicians interested in an extra challenge can choose to try out to become the principals of their sections. Ever dreamed of performing a solo with a full orchestra? WMYO Seniors are invited to apply for the opportunity to perform the concerto of their choice accompanied by the rest of the WMYO.
In exchange for these opportunities, WMYO asks that its students show a commitment to excellence. That commitment is demonstrated through regular attendance at rehearsals and concerts, continuation of musical studies with a private teacher and/or in school ensembles, and a willingness to be open to new musical experiences.
Tuition
Orchestra tuition for the 2009-2010 season will be $500. On acceptance into the Orchestra, a non-refundable deposit of one-half of the tuition is required. This deposit acknowledges acceptance into WMYO and holds the musician’s place in the Orchestra. The tuition balance is due no later than the first rehearsal of the season. Failure to pay either the deposit or the balance, or failure to make alternative payment arrangements may result in the withdrawal of the WMYO membership offer.
Need-based scholarships are available upon request.
Other Opportunities with WMPA
WMYO students are invited and encouraged to participate in other WMPA activities and events. WMYO students are able to satisfy school community service requirements by volunteering at WMPA concerts and events. Certain paid experiences (e.g. Head of WMP Front of House and WMP Concert Stage Manager) are also available.