Kenneth T. Bean, Director & Conductor
Rachel Segal, Associate Conductor
Young Musicians Debut Orchestra (YMDO) is a beginning- to intermediate-level symphonic orchestra that introduces students to large-ensemble playing, serving as a stepping stone for string musicians advancing from Prysm Strings and Tune Up Philly and offering wind, brass, and percussion students their first full orchestral experience.
Location: Saint Patrick Hall (240 South 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103)
Schedule: Saturdays, 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (mid-September – late May)
Open to: String, woodwind, brass, and percussion players
Ages: 11 – 17
Audition HereUpcoming PerformancesOpen RehearsalsWhy Join YMDO?
- Experience full orchestral playing in a structured and supportive setting, developing listening, blending, and leadership skills through professional coaching with expert faculty and conductors.
- Prepare for advancement to PYAO and PYO with progressive orchestral training, performing in premier venues, including Temple Performing Arts Center and The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, to gain confidence and ensemble experience.
- Access exclusive PYO Music Institute resources, including audition preparation and conducting classes, to support musical growth and future opportunities.
Auditions & 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:
- required scales
- a solo piece of your choice
- required orchestral excerpts (specific to each instrument)
Download Audition Excerpts:
Violin (PDF)Viola (PDF)Cello (PDF)Bass (PDF)Flute (PDF)Oboe (PDF)Clarinet (PDF)Bassoon (PDF)French Horn (PDF)Trumpet (PDF)Trombone (PDF)Tuba (PDF)Percussion (PDF)Tuition & Financial Aid
- Annual Tuition: $1,795 (2024-2025 season)
- Non-refundable deposit: $550 due upon registration
- Financial aid available after the audition process for students demonstrating need
For more information, contact info@pyomusic.org or 215.545.0502.
2024/2025 Repertoire
Anderson / Wagner
Irish Suite Parts 1 & 2
Beethoven
Symphony No. 1
Haydn
Symphony No. 101 “The Clock”
W.A. Mozart
Overture from Don Giovanni
Rossini
Overture to Barber of Seville
Schubert
Overture in the Italian Style