Jackson Youth Symphony Orchestra

The JYSO is a full symphonic orchestra based in Jackson, Michigan. The orchestra performs pieces from the standard classical repertoire along with modern works and “pops” pieces. Our season runs from September to May, with concert performances four times each season. We rehearse on Sunday afternoons at the Jackson Symphony Orchestra Hall in downtown Jackson. About our Conductor: David Schultz

Membership and Fees

The JYSO is open to high school aged and younger musicians from Jackson and the surrounding area. Instruments in the orchestra include violin, viola, cello, string bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, and percussion. Membership is by audition, which is based on musical excerpts provided to the musicians one week in advance of the audition. The yearly membership fee for the JYSO is $120. Need based scholarship assistance up to 50% of the fee is available. For families with more than one member in the orchestra, the fee is $60 for each member after the first.

Rehearsals and Performances

Rehearsals are held each Sunday afternoon from 3 to 5 PM in the JSO Orchestral Hall at 215 W. Michigan Ave. in downtown Jackson. In addition to full rehearsals, we hold regular sectional rehearsals often led by members of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. Our concert performances are also on Sunday afternoons, and we have a dress rehearsal on the Saturday morning of each performance week. Our concert performances take place in such quality venues as the Western Community Arts Center and The First United Methodist Church. Admission to our concerts is free.

Open House and Play-In

The JYSO season begins with an Open House and Play-In to be held this season on Sunday, September 12th from 3 to 5 PM in the JSO Orchestra Hall. This is an opportunity for prospective members and their parents to check out the orchestra with no obligation. Musicians should bring their instruments and play in the rehearsal. Parents can observe the rehearsal, meet the conductor, and ask questions about our programs. Refreshments are served. Following the rehearsal, students can sign up for auditions to be held on Saturday, September 19th. info@jacksonyso.org

Concerto Competition

Each season JYSO members are eligible to participate in our annual Concerto Competition. Students can prepare a single movement of a concerto, with a competitive audition held in January. The winner or winners will perform their piece with the orchestra at our final concert in May. In 2010, we had three concerto performers.

Special Events

In addition to the regular concert schedule, the orchestra often participates in special community events. In August, 2010, members of the JYSO performed side-by-side with Jackson Symphony Orchesta members outdoors at the Summer Pops Concert at the Jackson County Fair.