The Youth Orchestra is an ensemble of some of the finest young musicians in our region. The YO offers an opportunity for our talented local youth to grow as musicians and make friends that share similar interests. Being involved in this program is a great learning experience that many students say helped them to have a true appreciation for working with a group, as well as music in general.
High school or extremely advanced middle school string, woodwind, brass, and percussion players are welcome in the YO. Students are drawn from communities throughout the region, including: Horseheads, Corning, Elmira, Ithaca, Wellsboro, Sayre, and beyond.
The Youth Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes (YO), conducted by Margaret Matthews and Melissa Moore, offers area students an opportunity to be part of a symphonic orchestra (strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and harp) right here locally.
Youth Orchestra Members:
Are recognized as key players and leaders in their school music programs.
Are a cross-section of our schools' top academic achievers.
Learn teamwork, creativity, and pursuit of perfection.
Make smart decisions about higher education and careers.
Create lifelong friendships.
Melissa Moore and Margaret Matthews are the conducting team for the Youth Orchestra. Mrs. Moore’s expertise in band instruments perfectly complements the skills of Mrs. Matthews who specializes in string instruments.
Mrs. Matthews is the assistant principal second violin in the OSFL, and Mrs. Moore plays flute and piccolo in the OSFL. Melissa Moore is an alum of the Youth Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes.
Together, they create a well-rounded, dynamic environment for YO students to thrive musically.
Interested in joining?
Upcoming Youth Orchestra Performances
Celebrate the season of renewal as the Youth Orchestra takes the stage for its Spring Finale.
Bursting with energy, color, and heart, this uplifting performance showcases the incredible talent, dedication, and passion of our region’s young musicians—making it a perfect way to welcome spring and support the stars of tomorrow.
From the gentle awakening of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 (Pastoral) to the flowing beauty of The Moldau, audiences will be transported through music that captures the sights and sounds of the season. Beloved melodies from Swan Lake and the vibrant energy of spring from The Four Seasons bring color and movement to the program, while selections from Pictures at an Exhibition add imagination and storytelling. The concert also features familiar favorites like Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head and Bridge Over Troubled Water, creating a joyful blend of classical masterworks and timeless popular songs.
Join us for an inspiring afternoon of music that celebrates growth, possibility, and the fresh spirit of spring.
Sunday, May 17 at 4:00 PM
First Presbyterian Church
1054 West Clinton Street, Elmira, NY 14905
Youth orchestra students also perform concerts in various senior living centers to spread the holiday cheer each December.
For more information on this season's full concert lineup, check out the full calendar of events here.
Thank you to our season sponsors!
A special thanks to the parents and teachers of these budding young musicians and to all the individuals who have donated to and supported the youth programs.
Anderson Foundation, Inc.
Bonnie & Gary Chollet
Corning Incorporated
Horseheads First Presbyterian Church
The Tripp Foundation
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
