About
Musical Stories Nearly a Century in the Making
About Us/Our Story
The VYSO is committed to diversity, accessibility, and inclusivity so that all musicians have an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and become valuable members of our community. We greatly value and encourage integrity, respect, passion, transparency, and leadership, and invite our students and parents to volunteer each year to help foster these values.
Our training program includes full orchestra rehearsals, sectionals, workshops, masterclasses, an annual concerto competition, several concerts at multiple different venues around the Lower Mainland, and has had the privilege of many side-by-side concerts with the professional musicians from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO).
History of the VYSO
Founded in 1930, the VYSO has almost a century of dedication to providing young musicians with the opportunity to discover and explore, both artistically and as individuals. Hundreds of young musicians have graduated from VYSO, with many of them going onto successful musical careers and top schools, on the local, national, and international stage.
debut
Led by Maestra Nadia Petriw, the Debut Orchestra offers an introduction to string ensemble basics. Students must be a minimum of 8 years old, and they are recommended to be at the RCM Strings Level 3-4.
junior
Led by Dr. Rick Dorfer, the Junior Orchestra focuses on the continued development of rhythm, sound production, ensemble skills, various musical styles, terminology, and concepts. Students must be a minimum of 10 years old and are recommended to be at the RCM String Level 5-6.
intermediate
Conducted by award-winning Mr. Jin Zhang, the Intermediate Orchestra introduces woodwinds, brass, and percussion into the orchestra, making large classical and romantic works possible. Students must be at least 12 years old and are recommended to be at an RCM Level 7-8 on their primary instrument.
senior
The Senior Orchestra is the highest level orchestra within the VYSO family. Led by Dr. Jonathan Girard, the Senior Orchestra provides a very high level of musical training. Students who wish to join the Senior Orchestra must be a minimum of 14 years old and are recommended to be at an RCM Level 9-10+ level.
As a non-profit organization, the VYSO depends on generous donations from the community to keep our premier training program accessible and sustainable at the highest caliber possible. Your donation will help young musicians reach their musical and personal ambitions. Please visit our Donation Page for more information.
Contact the vyso
We love hearing from our community. Give us a call, drop by, attend a concert or send us an email.
3214 W. 10th Avenue
Vancouver, BC
V6K 2L2
*Please note that our office hours are by appointment only.
