Ottumwa Symphony Youth Orchestra
The mission of the Ottumwa Symphony Youth Orchestra is to provide a rewarding orchestra music experience for young musicians in the greater Ottumwa area who wish to expand their knowledge of symphonic repertoire, as well as participate in superior musical performances with a professional and dynamic conductor.
Participation in the Youth Orchestra builds upon the musical instruction students receive through their private lessons and school music programs. Young musicians audition in May for Ottumwa Youth Orchestra Personnel, who determine appropriate orchestra placement. There is also the opportunity to join the orchestra at the second semester, in which case the tuition would be 50% of the full-year amount.
Tuition and Scholarship Policies
Tuition is due as described below. Checks should be made payable to the Ottumwa Symphony Orchestra. To expedite tuition payments, please include the student’s name in your check’s memo field. For parents/guardians wishing to pay by credit card, your credit card number will be kept securely on file for all tuition payments and receipts will be provided via mail.
One payment: Full tuition due August 1 (this is preferred)
Two payments: 1/2 tuition ($125.00) due August 1 and 1/2 tuition ($125.00) due January 28
Here's what three OSYO members have to say
Scholarships
Once accepted, no student shall be excluded from participating in an OSYO ensemble solely due to the inability to pay tuition and fees. Scholarships are available, and following acceptance, families may first indicate their need for financial assistance on the OYSO registration forms.
Audition Dates and Times
The next round of auditions will be held at Ottumwa High School (orchestra room) on May 25, 2024. Auditions can be scheduled between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
To schedule an audition, please call Youth Orchestra Manager, Luke Miller, at 641–680–3126. If you cannot audition that day but wish to have the opportunity to audition, please ask about alternative arrangements.
Attendance Policy
Attendance at every rehearsal is expected, except in the case of illness or family emergency. The conductor may ask you to provide an audio “report” of your portion of the assignment.
Policies Regarding Safety, Medical Releases, Publicity Releases, Rehearsal Cancellation, etc.
Any and all release forms will be handed out at the first rehearsal.
The Symphonic Orchestra
Instructor: Yixue “Snow” Zhang
Age: Students in grade 7-12
Dates: September – May
Rehearsal time: Sundays 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Rehearsal location: Bridge View Center, 102 Church St. Ottumwa, Iowa 52537
Audition Fee: $10
Tuition: $250 per school year
The Symphonic Orchestra provides a unique, full orchestral experience for talented young musicians in Southeast Iowa and Northeast Missouri.
Participation in this group promotes a top-notch musical experience through the study and performance of standard orchestral repertoire and contemporary works. The Symphonic Orchestra performs at least two concert during their season.
Membership is open to dedicated musicians in grades 7-12, playing standard orchestral instruments.
Musicians should be comfortable playing key signatures of 1-3 sharps and 1-3 flats and have a workable vibrato.
Register a Symphonic Audition
Auditions will be held by appointment only. Fill out the registration form and the Manager will be in touch.