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
Reaching for the Stars
Sunday, March 15 at 3:00 PM
Clemens Center, Elmira
Experience the future of music in this side-by-side concert, where the talented musicians of the Youth Orchestra perform alongside the OSFL professionals. Blending tradition and imagination, featuring Copland’s Appalachian Spring. Our 2025 Hertzog Competition Winner, Ashley Park, takes the spotlight with a dazzling violin solo.
Youth Orchestra Concert
Sunday, May 17 at 4:00 PM
Location TBD
Enjoy a free performance by the talented young musicians of the Youth Orchestra!
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.
