WMPA has two youth orchestras:
Washington Metropolitan Youth Orchestra (WMYO), directed by Al Rodriguez, is for grades 9-12.
Washington Metropolitan Concert Orchestra (WMCO), directed by Martin Garfield-Levine, is for grades 6-8.

Youth Orchestra

WMYO is one of the region's premiere youth orchestras, and an orchestral training program for advanced level musicians who desire to perform some of the greatest symphonic works ever written. WMYO is also open to highly exceptional Middle School students that have a long history with a private teacher.

A typical concert season may include works by Tchaikovsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, Debussy, Beethoven, Stravinsky, Dvorak, and Ravel. WMYO also tackles works by Mahler, Berlioz, Brahms, Rachmaninov, and Bartok.
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WMYO offers a unique, friendly, and supportive environment in which our area's youth learns the art of great orchestral performing and musical leadership. In particular, our Orchestra offers its seniors the opportunity to perform as concerto soloists.
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Concert Orchestra

WMCO is focused on preparing middle level musicians for lifelong musical enjoyment and dedication. The ensemble was founded in 2008 to help develop young musician’s technique and ability for the high school level WMYO, and is a full orchestra, which bridges the gap between band and strings. This offers students the opportunity to perform and grow through collaboration. ​

Repertoire level for WMCO is grade 3-5 (difficulty level, not classroom age). Through a variety of music selections, students heighten their understanding of rhythm, dynamics, intonation, quality of sound and overall musicianship. WMCO performs works by classical masters such as Brahms, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Stravinsky, but also reaches into educational works by modern day composers and music from around the world arranged for an orchestral setting.

Join Us

Private lessons are not required to join us! We encourage all students to audition.
WMYO and WMCO ​rehearsals are held at Holmes Middle School (6525 Montrose St, Alexandria, VA 22312.)​
​Need-based scholarships are available upon request and/or alternative payment plans are available. 
​Discounted tuition for siblings is available for our youth orchestras.
Have any questions? Contact: 
WMYO Director Alberto Rodriguez: [email protected] 
WMCO Director Martin Garfield-Levine: [email protected]
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Have photos you wish to share? Send them to [email protected]

Why You Should Join Us

Student Testimonials

“My typical Tuesday for the past three years has consisted of me waking up, going to school, going to cross country or track practice, hastily eating dinner in my car on the way to rehearsal, and finally arriving at home after 9:30 p.m. to a mountain load of homework. Yet I loved my average Tuesday. The Music Director's stories and jokes made the rehearsals even better. I had an unforgettable time playing challenging music in the WMYO with fantastic musicians, many with whom I became very close friends. I am so grateful for all you have taught me in the WMYO.” 
- Will Milone, violin, WMYO graduate
                                                                     
"If you are looking for a wonderful orchestra experience for your child, I can highly recommend the WMYO. I have been involved as a violin section coach and must say that this orchestra has one of the nicest groups of teenagers I have ever encountered. The Music Director is an experienced and thoughtful leader who makes wonderful repertoire choices that showcase the orchestra's strengths and expose the musicians to a variety of musical styles.
​My son has been a member for the last couple of years and is happily looking forward to another season." 
- Harriet Vorona, professional violinist                                                                                                                      
 
“[Maestro, it is] nice of you to take that level of interest in your musicians – that’s a tribute to your impact on them. BTW – I thought your parting words to all those musicians who were NOT going to conservatory were very wise. It will make an impact on them. I was one of those kids myself and music to this day holds a special place in my life and is something I have been able to pass on to my children. They’ll keep your words in mind and recall them at the right times.”  
​- Parent of WMYO graduate

 Parent Testimonials

"Thank you for the wonderful work you do with the Concert Orchestra. I have been so impressed by the quality and accessibility of the music you have chosen, and Isaac is having a wonderful experience in his first season with the group. We feel very fortunate to have your organization here in Northern Virginia"
       
"Great job, congrats!  My husband commented that he could hear a lot of improvement. I enjoyed the selection and glad for them to play diverse pieces, too. Keep continuing the good work that you started, a ways back with Ul and yourself! "   

"Thank you for all your efforts toward WMCO – the girls have had a great year and without fail were always happy on Tuesday evenings after rehearsals. It was a unique experience for them that I’m sure they will treasure."                         

"Thank you, thank you for all that you have done to support and encourage our children musically over the years. Your dedication and lovely manner have built WMCO into such an impressive ensemble. We have been privileged to be a part."

"I cannot stop watching the video of the performance.  When we looked into joining the group, I had no idea how amazing it would really be. Thank you so much for cultivating the talent and excitement in our daughter for playing the violin…"

"First and foremost - congratulations on a wonderful concert yesterday!  We thoroughly enjoyed the music and were impressed by the talent displayed by the WMCO.  This group has really matured under your direction!"

"Congratulations on a very successful concert yesterday!  It was great to see the students rise to the challenge of the higher level pieces, and the combined performance with the YO was a real treat  -- for both the musicians, and parents :)"