Youth Orchestras

An Unforgettable Orchestral Experience for Young Musicians

Be part of a musical community that inspires excellence.

The Fort Wayne Philharmonic Youth Orchestras provide student musicians with a professional orchestra experience, exceptional artistic training, and transformative opportunities to perform at the highest level.

More than music—our program builds discipline, confidence, collaboration, and a lifelong love of the arts. Whether onstage or in rehearsal, young musicians are mentored by professional Philharmonic musicians and gain a deeper appreciation for music’s power.

“Joining the Youth Symphony was life-changing. I grew not just as a violinist, but as a person.”

— Olivia M., YO Alumna

Supporting School Music Programs

Our program enhances—not replaces—school music programs.
Students are encouraged to participate in their school’s orchestra and/or band, when possible.

Two Ensembles

Junior Strings

For intermediate string musicians ready to grow in an orchestral setting.

  • Open to students typically Grades 5-9
  • Focus on ensemble experience, technique, and musicianship
  • Rehearsals: Sundays, 3:15-4:15 PM
    Rhinehart Room 120, PFW
  • Performances: Featured in seasonal concerts & special events

Youth Symphony Orchestra

An advanced full symphony orchestra for high school and advanced middle school students.

  • Open to students typically Grades 8-12
  • Perform challenging orchestral repertoire: classical to pops
  • Rehearsals: Sundays, 4:30-6:30 PM
    Rhinehart Rehearsal Room 120, PFW
  • Performance Opportunities:
    • Annual Concerto Competition
    • Side-by-Side concert with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic
    • Guest artist masterclasses & coaching with Philharmonic musicians

Exclusive Professional Opportunities for Youth Orchestra Members

National and International Performance Tours

Side-by-side performances with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic

Coaching & Masterclasses with Philharmonic Musicians & Guest Artists

Scholarship Opportunities for Private Lessons & Summer Music Camps

Complimentary Tickets to Select Philharmonic Concerts

Instrument Loan Opportunities

“The chance to play beside professional musicians gave me confidence I never knew I had.”

— Leo T., Youth Symphony Trumpet

Concert & Event Schedule

2025-2026 Season (Coming Soon)

Current Members

Current members of the Youth Orchestras can find rosters and seating, sheet music and part assignment, the tuition payment portal, and other required forms on the Youth Orchestra Members page.

How to Audition (2025-2026 Season)

Junior Strings Requirements
Step 1: Apply online & pay the $25 family audition fee
Step 2: Submit Teacher Recommendation Form
Step 3: Prepare audition pieces

Youth Symphony Requirements & Excerpts
Step 1: Apply online & pay the $25 family audition fee
Step 2: Submit Teacher Recommendation Form
Step 3: Prepare audition pieces
Step 4: YSO Audition Excerpts

Mid-Season Auditions: Open year-round based on availability.

Tuition

  • Youth Symphony Orchestra – $500 per season
  • Junior Strings Orchestra – $450 per season

Audition FAQs

Auditions are typically held on various dates throughout May and June. Every student interested in participating in the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Youth Orchestra program must audition. Current Youth Orchestra students must re-audition for seating each year. Spring auditions are the primary audition for the Youth Orchestra program.

Auditions are held in Ginsberg Hall, rehearsal room 128
Located at 4901 Fuller Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46835.

To secure an audition time, please send in the application form with a $25 non-refundable per family audition fee. Checks are to be made payable to the Fort Wayne Philharmonic. Your audition date/time will be confirmed via email. For additional questions, please contact Troy Webdell, Director of Youth Orchestras, at [email protected]

Ginsberg Hall is located on the North Ivy Tech Campus, directly across from the Purdue University Fort Wayne campus and St. Joe Road. From St. Joe Road, turn onto Dean Drive (towards the Northeast Indiana Innovation Center and Ivy Tech campus). Take the first left onto Fuller Drive. Ginsberg Hall is located at the end of the street.

Yes, we have three warm-up rooms available for musicians to use prior to their audition time.

We suggest musicians arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled audition time, in order to unpack equipment and warm-up.

Memorization is not required.

Each audition lasts approximately 10 minutes

Wear clothing that is comfortable for you to perform in.

All students will be notified, regardless of outcome, via email after the final audition day.

Rehearsals for both the Youth Symphony Orchestra and Junior Strings are held on Sunday afternoons in the Instrumental Rehearsal Room (#120) of the Rhinehart Music Center on the Purdue University Fort Wayne campus. Youth Symphony members rehearse from 4:30—6:30 p.m. Junior Strings members rehearse from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Parking is most closely available in Parking Garage 3.

Please contact Troy Webdell, Director of Youth Orchestras, at [email protected]

Still have questions?

Contact Youth Education and Family Concert Conductor, Troy Webdell
Email: [email protected]