New Jersey Youth Symphony students are immersed in rigorous repertoire, learn the art of ensemble playing, and explore their potential in a supportive environment.
Students of NJYS study a primary instrument and participate in ensemble practice and instrumental sectionals weekly.
About Our Programs
Opportunities exist for NJYS students depending on where they are in their musical studies, and what their interests are. Following an audition, students will be placed in an appropriate ensemble based on their age and ability.
In addition to ensemble practice, students will have 2-3 performances a year. Special performances include the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, NJPAC in Newark, and Carnegie Hall.
Students may stay in a rising ensemble for up to 3 years, depending on their level of playing as well as their personal commitment and maturity level. Each ensemble has its pathway from section player to principal, and each student’s journey will be different.
How to Apply
NJYS opens new spots each spring. Current and prospective students should complete the following steps:
Step 01
All applicants must submit an online audition registration, which will be made available online when registration opens.*
Step 02
Review audition requirements.
Step 03
Attend and complete the audition.
Step 04
Receive a letter via email announcing student’s status.
Step 05
Register for your course online using the link provided via email.
*All students audition each year to secure a position in an ensemble regardless of their previous participation in the program. Please do not create a new account if you already had one. For any help with your password, give us a call at 908-771-5544. Returning student? Click here to access your account.
Financial Assistance
The Wharton Arts Scholarship Fund awards tuition assistance based on financial need each year. The fund is made possible by generous donations from our community (link to Donate page). If you are interested in applying for tuition assistance, contact Director of Orchestra Administration Stacy Square at (908) 771-5544 or info@NJYS.org. CLICK HERE for the Financial Assistance form.
Offerings
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Big Band
The NJYS Big Band is an opportunity for students to learn to play the classic repertoire of the big band, as well as focus…
Chamber Music
The Wharton Arts Chamber Music Program provides young musicians with the opportunity to learn and perform chamber music literature composed for small un-conducted chamber…
Clarinet Ensemble
Exploring deeply the unique qualities of clarinet playing, this ensemble performs everything from new commissions to the landmarks of the Classical repertoire, challenging and inspiring students…
Concertino Strings
Designed for the advancing string player, Concertino Strings focuses on refining orchestral fundamentals through the study of string orchestra repertoire. Music theory, bowing techniques,…
Concertino Winds
Concertino Winds emphasizes the fundamentals of performance including good technique, breathing, air support, sound production, tuning, embouchure, posture, and basic musicianship skills. Focus is placed on…
Flute Choir
Nurturing and educational, Flute Choir provides students with new ways to learn and grow as musicians in a comfortably challenging environment. Students have the…
Flute Forum
For advanced players, this ensemble presents artistic and technical challenges in a supportive environment. Students connect with peers who share their passion for ensemble playing…
Fortissimo Flutes
This is the most advanced flute ensemble, performing frequently in concerts and interactive events that provide a dynamic musical experience for this highly selective…
Jazz Orchestra
The NJYS Jazz Orchestra will perform repertoire from some of the most important composers in jazz history such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie.…
Jazz Workshop
The Jazz Workshop is our entry level Jazz program designed to introduce young musicians with an interest in Jazz to the elements and practice…
Percussion Ensemble I & II
The NJYS Percussion Ensemble program offers talented percussionists the opportunity to perform advanced repertoire while receiving intensive, personalized instruction across a wide range of percussion techniques. The program includes…
Percussion Ensemble III
This ensemble provides the opportunity for talented percussionists to perform challenging literature with intensive and personalized instruction in all percussion techniques. The NJYS Percussion…
Philharmonia
Philharmonia is the first NJYS ensemble that combines all instrument families—brass, woodwinds, strings, and percussion—in a full symphony. This ensemble introduces students to performing…
Prelude Flutes
Nurturing and educational, Prelude Flutes offers a first flute ensemble experience for students. In an ensemble setting, students will work on honing the fundamentals of good…
Primo Strings
Primo Strings is the first large ensemble for young musicians who read music. It sets the foundation for success in future orchestral endeavors. Emphasis…
Sinfonia
In Sinfonia, experienced young string players continue to develop their performance skillset in preparation for further advancement into a full orchestra. Students work together…
Youth Orchestra
Youth Orchestra provides an advanced orchestral experience for talented student musicians. This 75+ member full orchestra offers opportunities to perform music from Beethoven to…
Youth Symphony
As the flagship ensemble of the New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS), the Youth Symphony (YS) gathers the most talented student musicians from across the…