Young musicians performing advanced repertoire that will challenge and inspire
Abilene Youth Orchestra
The AYO exists for the benefit of young musicians, responds to their needs, and keeps their interest in music education paramount. It is open for students from 9th grade- 12th grade.
The Abilene Youth Orchestra (AYO) is a full symphony youth orchestra that provides a unique opportunity for talented young musicians in the Big Country to perform advanced repertoire that will challenge and inspire.
Auditions are currently open for all instruments.
Abilene Youth Strings
The Abilene Youth Strings (AYS) is a class for string players ready for a new challenge, but not quite ready for the demands of the advanced AYO repertoire. This high energy class will help students improve string technique, music literacy, and more advanced sightreading skills. It is open for students from 5th grade- 9th grade. AYS is open for all strings: violin, viola, cello, and bass.
Registration is currently open for all instruments.
Mission: Strings Pt. II
In Mission:Strings Part II, students will further their learning of string skills alongside other string students. They will also increase their ensemble skills with extensive listening and blending within the group. It is open for students with at least one year of experience 3rd grade +.
Registration for Mission Strings Part Two will reopen Fall of 2026.
Mission: Strings
In Mission: Strings, students will learn beginning strings skills on the instrument of their choice- violin, viola, cello, or bass- alongside a small class of string student beginners. They will showcase their skills in a concert in both the Fall and the Spring. It is open for beginners 3rd grade +.
Registration for Mission Strings will reopen Fall of 2026.