Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra Applications Now Available for 2012-13 Season

Applications are now available for the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) - an elite youth ensemble which provides Atlanta's most talented and dedicated students an outlet to perform orchestral masterworks. Each year, more than 300 instrumentalists audition for one of 120 seats in the Youth Orchestra.

Interested applicants must be between 13-18 years old and in good standing with their school's music program. Applications are available at aso.org/asyoapplication, and all applications and fees must be submitted online or postmarked by Friday, August 10, 2012.

The Youth Orchestra has also recently announced a "Conductor's Scholarship," valued at $450, and all percussion applicants will automatically be considered. The scholarship will cover the costs of one student's Youth Orchestra expenses for the 2012-13 season, and will be awarded based on merit and on the Youth Orchestra audition.

The Youth Orchestra - under the direction of its Music Director, Jere Flint - will kick off its 38th season with an Overture Concert on November 11, 2012. Other concerts this season include the Atlanta Symphony Kid's Christmas (part of the Coca-Cola Holiday Concerts) on Sunday, December 9 and 16, 2012; a Crescendo Concert on Sunday, March 17, 2013; and a Finale Concert on Sunday, May 12, 2013. All performances will be held at Atlanta Symphony Hall in the Woodruff Arts Center.

Other highlights of the upcoming Youth Orchestra season include a master class with renowned violinist Midori, who will be featured in the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's season-opening performances in early October. In addition, student musicians will have the opportunity to rehearse with Principal Guest Conductor Donald Runnicles, former Atlanta Symphony Associate Conductor Michael Palmer, and others.