# Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras

Four-tier youth orchestra program of the Columbus Symphony, Junior Strings through the grades 9-12 Youth Orchestra, with weekly rehearsals and coaching from CSO musicians. 2026-27 auditions open; tuition $465-$555.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Columbus Symphony |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | $555 |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Columbus, OH |
| Time commitment | ~3 hours/week |
| Apply | https://columbussymphony.com/education/csyo/ |

## About this program

# Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras

The Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras (CSYO) are central Ohio's ladder of orchestral training under the Columbus Symphony. Four ensembles serve players from elementary through high school: Junior Strings (grades 3-7), Chamber Strings (grades 6-9), Repertory Orchestra (grades 7-10), and the flagship Youth Orchestra for instrumentalists in grades 9-12. Members rehearse weekly and perform throughout the season, working directly with Columbus Symphony musicians.

## What You'll Do

- Audition for placement using the posted 2026-2027 CSYO Audition Booklet excerpts
- Rehearse weekly (Youth Orchestra meets Wednesdays 7:00-9:30 pm; other ensembles on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings, including at the Ohio State School of Music)
- Receive coaching sessions and one-on-one mentoring from Columbus Symphony musicians, including principal players
- Perform season concerts as part of a full youth orchestra

## Who Should Apply

Central Ohio string, wind, brass, and percussion students from upper elementary through 12th grade; the top Youth Orchestra serves grades 9-12 while Repertory, Chamber Strings, and Junior Strings welcome younger and intermediate players. Auditions for the 2026-2027 season are open through the CSYO application portal. Annual tuition ranges from $465 (Junior Strings) to $555 (Youth Orchestra), and financial aid and payment plans are available for every ensemble.

## Outcomes

CSYO members build advanced ensemble skills with professional-orchestra mentors, a season of public performances, and preparation that feeds OMEA honors ensembles, college auditions, and lifelong musicianship.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras cost?

Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras costs $555. Many paid programs offer need-based financial aid or fee waivers — check the official site before ruling it out.

### Who is eligible for Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras?

Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras online or in person?

Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras is an in-person program based in Columbus, OH. Expect a time commitment of roughly 3 hours per week.

### How do I apply to Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras?

Apply directly through Columbus Symphony's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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