Metropolitan Youth Symphony

To educate young instrumental musicians through the twelfth grade in the art of symphonic performance to develop character, discipline, leadership, cultural awareness, and a strong commitment to excellence; thus enabling Metropolitan Youth Symphony to contribute to the Valley of the Sun's rich cultural heritage and create a higher level of appreciation for the performing arts.

The growth of Metropolitan Youth Symphony has been impressive. Currently in our 38th season, the members of MYS are divided into four string orchestras, one full symphonic orchestra, and a symphonic wind ensemble. Auditionees through the 12th grade are placed by performance ability in the appropriate ensemble. As they progress, they have the opportunity to move into more advanced ensembles. Each season, our members attend weekly rehearsals and perform in at least four formal concerts. In addition to our large ensembles, MYS offers a Fiddler’s group, an Honors Quartets program, a homeschools’ beginning instrumental program. We are excited and looking forward to offering Guitar Orchestras in the 40th Season.

Metropolitan Youth Symphony is widely recognized in the Phoenix metropolitan area and is known for musical excellence. In partnership with the schools, local professional musicians, community outreach programs, and a vibrant board of directors, MYS encourages participation from every district and school program in the valley. We are proud to offer a unique and high quality musical experience for youth seldom found at any school level. The ensembles have been invited to perform in a variety of locations including Phoenix Symphony Hall, the Mesa City Amphitheater, Disneyland, the Arizona Music Educators Association annual conference, and multiple performances in Washington, D.C. Our Division 1 members received the honor of performing at New York City’s famed Carnegie Hall under the direction of Wayne Roederer, founder and current Musical Director Laureate.

MYS ensembles are pleased to perform in the Mesa Arts Center, a $94.5 million facility, as one of the Mesa Arts Center’s founding resident companies.