The DeKalb Youth Symphony Orchestra was established in 1967 as an honor organization to foster and develop young musicians, to develop their natural appreciation for symphonic literature, and to provide an opportunity for student musicians from all over DeKalb County to perform together. For us to maintain the high standards that have guided us for so many seasons, it is necessary to publish a list of guidelines by which the organization is governed. Members must adhere to these guidelines strictly.
They will be always enforced by DYSO conductors and administrators. Therefore, it is imperative that each participant in the DeKalb Youth Symphony Orchestra and their parents read and acknowledge the following guidelines and the obligations that these guidelines represent.
Any student residing in DeKalb County who is actively participating in their school instrumental music program is eligible to audition for membership in the DeKalb Youth Symphony Orchestra. Your school director will be contacted to determine your eligibility.
Annual tuition for DYSO is $125 per musician. Details on how to pay and due dates can be found on the 'pay dues/trips' link at the top of this page.. If there is a financial need, a pay-in-installments plan or tuition assistance can be arranged. Please email dekalbyouthsymphony@gmail.com if you need any help.
CONCERT ATTIRE
All black. No jeans, t-shirts, or tennis shoes. All black includes belts and socks.
ATTENDANCE
FALL: Strings must attend 7 out of 10 rehearsals, wind/percussion students must attend 6 out of 10 rehearsals.
SPRING: Students must attend 7 out of 10 rehearsals to be eligible to play in our concert.
Failure to attend the above mentioned rehearsals will result in dismissal from the ensemble
Students are expected to prepare the orchestra parts to the best of their ability. Seek assistance from your private instructors and/or orchestra and band directors whenever possible or necessary. Students should be prepared to commit the number of practice hours necessary to execute a professional performance. We encourage, but do not require, that students study with private teachers. The extra individual attention that these lessons provide assists greatly in the development of proper technique, as well as the further development of orchestral style.
During all DYSO rehearsals, there is NO texting, use of cell phones, eating, doing homework or reading while we are rehearsing. There will be appropriate breaks during each rehearsal for these activities.
Each year, DYSO hosts a concerto competition. Below are guidelines for the competition:
-Auditions are in-person and listed on the DYSO calendar.
-Only current DYSO students are eligible to audition.
-Students may audition on a secondary instrument (i.e. a violinist who also plays piano can audition on piano)
-Students can only audition on one instrument
-The piece selected must have orchestra parts that are readily available to purchase/rent.