Rosalind Erwin, Director & Conductor

Philadelphia Young Artists Orchestra (PYAO) is an advanced ensemble, offering high-level orchestral training, masterclass instruction, and performance opportunities for musicians developing the technical and musical proficiency required for high-level ensemble performance.

Location: Saint Patrick Hall (240 South 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103)

Schedule: Sundays, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (mid-September – early June)

Open to: String, woodwind, brass, percussion, piano, and harp players

Ages: 13 – 18

Why Join PYAO?

• Develop advanced orchestral performance skills through rigorous training and high-level repertoire, working with expert conductors and musicians, including members of The Philadelphia Orchestra.
• Perform in professional-level venues at The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.
• Compete in the PYAO Annual Concerto Competition with feedback from top professional musicians.
• Collaborate with PYO, YMDO, and Prysm Strings students in cross-ensemble opportunities, building confidence, discipline, and leadership through ensemble experience.
• Strengthen college and conservatory applications, as PYAO alumni are accepted into top universities, colleges, and conservatories worldwide, with access to exclusive PYO Music Institute resources, including audition preparation and conducting classes.

Audition & Enrollment

2025/2026 Season Audition Dates:

• Sunday, May 18, 2025: 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Sunday, May 25, 2025: 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Sunday, June 1, 2025: 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday, June 7, 2025: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday, June 8, 2025: 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Audition Requirements:

1. required scales
2. a solo piece of your choice
3. required orchestral excerpts (specific to each instrument)

Download Audition Excerpts: