About the Austin Youth Orchestra (AYO)

The Austin Youth Orchestra traces its roots back to the 1973–1974 school year, when John Pearson, then Coordinator of Fine Arts for the Austin Independent School District (AISD), founded a program of All-City performing groups. These included an All-City Jazz Band conducted by Pearson, an All-City Choir under the direction of Richard Sutch, and an All-City Orchestra led by the newly hired conductor William Dick.

A program from the 1978–1979 season beautifully captured the philosophy and purpose of the All-City Orchestra:

“As long as mankind has speculated and written about what should be included in the education of our species, music has always been a continuous ingredient. The ancient Greeks held the various modes of music as crucial elements in the total development of the character and soul; whereas modern society tends to emphasize the benefits of discipline and socialization. Regardless of the philosophical approach to music, the involvement of young people in music has always been an inspirational sight and experience."

In the 1993–1994 school year, under the leadership of Tom Waggoner and the AISD orchestra staff, the All-City Orchestra was renamed the Austin Youth Symphony to reflect both the growing size of the city and the expanding reach of the ensemble, which had come to include students from surrounding districts and non-traditional educational settings.

Today, the Austin Youth Orchestra (AYO) has grown well beyond its origins, evolving into a thriving, community-based program that serves students from across the greater Austin metropolitan area and Central Texas region. While rooted in a tradition of excellence in public school music education, AYO now brings together talented young musicians from a wide range of educational backgrounds—including public, private, charter, and homeschool settings. What began as a district initiative has become a dynamic and inclusive organization dedicated to cultivating musical artistry, discipline, and joy in students from first grade through high school. With the support of area music educators and local arts organizations, AYO proudly provides access to high-quality orchestral instruction and ensemble experiences to the next generation of performers—regardless of school affiliation.

We offer a vibrant, multi-level program for students in grades 1 through 12, supporting the development of instrumentalists from beginner to advanced. With seven distinct ensembles, AYO provides a structured pathway for musical growth, technical mastery, and ensemble artistry—meeting students where they are and guiding them forward with purpose and care.

Who Is Eligible?

Membership in AYO is open to all students in grades 1 through 12 who qualify through the audition process. String students enrolled in schools that offer orchestra programs must be active members in good standing with their school orchestra. Similarly, wind and percussion students must be active members of their school band programs. Students from private schools, charter schools, and homeschool settings are also encouraged to audition. Participation in AYO is contingent upon successful audition placement, completion of the membership acceptance process, and payment of tuition.

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We welcome your interest and support—whether as an audience member, a donor, or best of all, a student ready to make music with us. Join us in creating something extraordinary.