CSYOP consists of four levels of ensembles: Cape Symphony Youth Orchestra (Advanced), Repertory (Advanced/Intermediate), Debut (Intermediate/Adv. Beginner), and Primary (Beginner). Each ensemble focuses on varying levels of musicianship and technique and aims to place students with similar ability together. Please visit our Ensembles page (link below) for our current list of ensemble offerings.
All members of CSYOP will learn to rehearse and perform, like the Cape Symphony Orchestra, exploring the beauty and intricacy of history’s greatest compositions while continuing to grow their musicianship and technical ability. We welcome all young musicians who play orchestral instruments (up to age 21, generally) to audition for placement in one of our ensembles. Each season begins in Mid-September and concludes in May (before Memorial Day weekend).
It is our mission to inspire joy and we achieve that goal by sharing our love for music performance and education with the next generation of Cape Cod musicians.
Auditions
All new and returning members must audition each season. Auditions take place in June and September. Candidates audition for the CSYOP – not a specific group – and selected candidates will be placed in an ensemble based on ability level.
Ensembles
The CSYO Program currently offers four levels of ensembles: Cape Symphony Youth Orchestra (Advanced), Repertory (Intermediate), Debut (Adv. Beginner), and Primary (Beginner). Each ensemble focuses on varying levels of musicianship and technique and aims to place students with similar ability together.
Instrument & Instruction Access Program
The Cape Symphony’s Instrument & Instruction Access Program (IIAP) is a new initiative that aims to remove financial barriers and promote equal opportunity for young, aspiring musicians on Cape Cod.
Faculty and Staff
CSYOP faculty includes professional chamber, orchestra, and solo musicians who have dedicated their careers to music performance and teaching. Our instructors, and frequent guests from the Cape Symphony, will guide students in sectionals and provide support in rehearsals, often playing side-by-side with students while they learn to navigate the challenges of orchestral playing.
Learn More About Faculty & Staff
Program Details
Tuition
Thanks to the generosity of supporting foundations and donors, tuition for all CSYOP members is $600, regardless of ensemble placement, and covers enrollment for the full season.
Tuition is waived for students enrolled in private lessons through the Cape Symphony. Financial aid is available for qualified students.
Schedules
2025|26 Season Calendars:
CSYO
Repertory Strings
Debut Strings
Primary Strings
Wind Ensemble
Repertory Percussion
Handbook
The Student Handbook includes all details about the CSYO Program, including audition requirements, rehearsal locations, and student expectations.
Mentorship
A new initiative that aims to cultivate a learning environment where young musicians are supported and encouraged by their peers.
Summer Opportunities
While CSYOP is on break for the summer, we highly encourage members to explore summer classes and lessons at the Cape Symphony.
Related offerings for 2026:
- Summer Strings Ensemble (Intermediate/Advanced), conductor - David Gable
- Summer Wind Ensemble (Intermediate/Advanced), conductor - Lisa Fournier
Contact
For all general Cape Symphony Youth Orchestra Program questions and member communication, contact:
Janice Paine, CSYOP Personnel Manager
To inquire about Private Lessons, contact:
Cape Symphony Registration Team
West Barnstable Campus
508-362-2772
