Performing arts education to the tune of ensemble excellence.
Auditioned orchestral and jazz education for students grades 3-12
New Jersey Youth Symphony is much more than a performing arts program. NJYS students will achieve musical excellence as performers and gain critical skills that will serve them throughout their education and careers. View Season 2024-25 Audition Requirements.
NJYS
a concert for peace with violins of hope
Wharton Arts proudly presents: A Concert for Peace with Violins of Hope, Sunday, January 12, 2025, at NJPAC, a poignant tribute to resilience and the power of music. Led by Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Helen H. Cha-Pyo, this special concert showcases the extraordinary Violins of Hope, precious stringed instruments that survived the Holocaust.
NJYS
new bassoon Ensemble
Auditions will take place on December 2 and the first rehearsal will be on January 27, 2025. Audition registration closes on November 1. The New Jersey Youth Symphony Bassoon Ensemble is a dynamic eight-member group dedicated to exploring all things bassoon and contrabassoon. Open to young musicians from across the state, the ensemble offers a unique opportunity to dive into rich and engaging repertoire while honing skills in both performance and reed making. With a focus on camaraderie and learning, members will connect with fellow bassoon enthusiasts, share their passion for music, and develop their craft in a supportive and fun environment under the direction of Dr. Joseph Swift. Questions? Call (908) 771-5544 or email info@njys.org.
NJYS
our ensembles & programs
NJYS programming includes string orchestras, full symphony orchestras, jazz orchestra, big band, wind, and percussion ensembles. Following an audition, students will be placed in an appropriate ensemble based on their age and ability.
View Performances from Current Students
NJYS is known for its high standard of excellence throughout the United States and internationally.
Our family of 15 orchestras serves 3rd to 12th-grade students, many of whom remain a part of the organization for as long as 10 years. Students flourish in our programs as they explore their potential, share the love of music with peers, and express themselves freely in a supportive and inclusive environment.
NJYS has received numerous prestigious awards for its adventurous programming from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP).
NJYS has a rich history of fostering musical talent.
1979
NJYS started in 1979. George Marriner Maull, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s assistant conductor, was the artistic director and the Summit Junior League provided seed funding.
65
NJYS started with 65 high school students.
500
Forty-four years later, NJYS has grown into the musical home for almost 500 of the state’s most talented young musicians in grades 3-12.
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We’re taking steps to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus and reduce the potential risk of exposure to our students and workforce.