Business Details
21 Years
experience
Youth Orchestra Programs in El Paso
Founded in 2005, we are the largest education program of the El Paso Symphony Orchestra, serving over 300 young musicians annually from the Greater El Paso region, including Juarez, Mexico, and southern New Mexico. Our mission focuses on providing advanced musical training, performance opportunities, and mentorship to foster artistic and personal growth regardless of financial need. We maintain partnerships with the El Paso Independent School District, Texas Commission on the Arts, and City of El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department. Our programs have received six National Endowment for the Arts grants and featured in national media. We offer four tiered orchestras, summer chamber music programs, and performance opportunities at iconic venues like the Plaza Theatre and Abraham Chavez Theatre.Our alumni benefit from mentorship by professional musicians and access to collaborative learning experiences. We prioritize accessibility through financial aid and tax-deductible donations that support border region students across nine counties. Our organization has maintained continuous operations for nearly two decades while adapting to technological advancements like our recently upgraded payment system. We measure success through student development of technical skill, responsibility, and lifelong appreciation for classical music.
Services
Youth Orchestra
Youth Symphony
String Ensemble
String Philharmonic
Chamber Summer Program
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We offer four tiered orchestral programs for varying skill levels since 2005
- Our students perform at iconic venues like the Plaza Theatre
- We maintain partnerships with local school districts and cultural agencies
- Our programs have received six National Endowment for the Arts grants
- We provide financial aid and accept tax-deductible donations
Associations and certifications
- National Endowment for the Arts
What people say
Learn new things
Best teachers
Fun experiences
Great musicianship
Responsible musicians
Services
Youth Orchestra
Our flagship program for advanced musicians offers rigorous training and performance opportunities. Students develop technical proficiency through complex repertoire and collaborative performances at major venues. Participants benefit from mentorship by professional musicians and structured rehearsals that emphasize both individual growth and ensemble cohesion.
String Ensemble
Specialized instruction for string players focusing on ensemble techniques and repertoire. This program develops sight-reading skills, chamber music collaboration, and stylistic interpretation. Participants receive personalized coaching from symphony musicians and perform at seasonal concerts throughout the academic year.
Summer Chamber Program
Four-day intensive music education experience with focused chamber ensemble training. Students work closely with instructors to develop interpretive skills and collaborative techniques. The program culminates in a showcase performance that demonstrates technical progress and musical understanding achieved during the session.
String Philharmonic
Entry-level program for developing string musicians builds foundational skills through ensemble playing. Students learn orchestral techniques, music theory basics, and performance practices in a supportive environment. Regular concerts help build confidence and stage presence for young musicians.
Youth Symphony
Mid-level ensemble develops orchestral skills through progressively challenging repertoire. Participants refine technical abilities while learning ensemble coordination and musical interpretation. Regular performances at major venues help build experience and prepare students for advanced orchestral participation.
Questions
What youth orchestra levels are available?
We offer four tiered programs: String Philharmonic (beginner), String Ensemble, Youth Symphony (intermediate), and Youth Orchestra (advanced) for progressively skilled musicians.
How do students audition for EPSYO?
Auditions require submitting performance recordings demonstrating technical proficiency and musical interpretation. Specific requirements vary by ensemble level and instrument section.
Where are EPSYO concerts held?
Our main concerts occur at the historic Plaza Theatre and Abraham Chavez Theatre in downtown El Paso, with additional performances at various community venues.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, all cash donations to EPSYO are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law as we operate under the El Paso Symphony's 501(c)(3) status.
What payment options are available?
We accept payments by phone during business hours while our online system undergoes scheduled maintenance and upgrades through May 27th.
When are the 2026 season concerts?
The 2026 season includes Winter Concert (Feb 1), Side by Side Concert (Mar 29), and Season Finale (May 17) at Abraham Chavez Theatre and Plaza Theatre.
