This stellar organization also has appeared on the nationally syndicated National Public Radio program From the Top, at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago, in the MidAmerica series in New York City’s legendary Carnegie Hall, and at the Music for All Orchestra America National Festival. As another indication of success, the string students in this department typically compose 20 to 25 percent of the Kentucky All-State Orchestra string section. The 25 to 35 string members of the Philharmonia usually perform at least seven times during the school year. The repertoire selected for this group includes some of the finest orchestral masterpieces written. During their years at YPAS, students can expect to be challenged to develop themselves musically to their highest potential. As Orchestra majors, these students will take a second strings class—Chamber Strings Orchestra or String Techniques—in which more individualized instruction promotes further musical development and growth.

The Orchestra curricula exposes students to orchestral music along with a historical and structural perspective meant to broaden and deepen their understanding and appreciation of orchestral music. The knowledge and experience students gain in Orchestra should lay the foundation for a lifetime of rewarding encounters with great music, whether students choose to participate in performing groups or become enlightened listeners. The Manual Concert Orchestra typically performs twice each semester, including  the Kentucky Music Educators Association Orchestra Festival in the spring.