Why CYO

CYO offers an engaging music educational program for musicians of all skills levels to advance and showcase their talents at performance venues, including the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, the performance home of CYO.

Our program provides both small and large ensemble training for musicians ages 5 to 22, guided by accomplished professional staff. Master classes, workshops, intensive orchestral retreats, competitions, and tours further enrich the learning experience.

Auditions are now open!

Join us to be part of an amazing music community where aspiring young musicians will find an enriching and positive learning environment to cultivate their talent!

Schedule an Audition

About Us

UPCOMING EVENTS

CYO is going to Knott’s Berry Farm on Sunday, March 1, 2026 with our Prelude, Intermezzo, Intermediate, and Chamber ensembles. Performance in the Park gives our students an unforgettable opportunity to shine on a dynamic, high-energy stage and perform for park guests. The fun doesn’t stop when the performance ends! Students and families can stay and enjoy Knott’s rides and attractions. Student registrations are due February 10, 2026. Click here to register your student and order discount family tickets.

CYO presents the 5th Annual CYO Invitational Orchestra Festival on March 24 and March 25 featuring CYO Symphony and Symphonic Orchestras and seven high schools in San Diego in the Concert Hall at California Center for the Arts, Escondido. Tickets will be available soon through the high school orchestras and CYO website.

The CYO Recital Competition showcases the talents of our young musicians. A memorable experience, the competition helps build confidence and strengthen performance skills. The competition is open to CYO members of any CYO ensembles. Multiple winners are selected to perform live at the Winners Recital on May 2, 2026, open to the public. Click here to enter and submit your performance video by April 18, 2026.

The Spring Showcase Concert on March 15, 2026 features all seven CYO ensembles in the Center Theater at California Center for the Arts, Escondido, the performance home for CYO. Come watch our students showcase their talents! Tickets are now available here on our website and picked up during rehearsals beginning February 14. This is a sell-out concert, so get order your tickets as soon as possible! Click here to pre-order tickets and video digital download.

The CYO Solo Competition gives young musicians the chance to compete for the extraordinary opportunity to perform as soloist with the CYO Symphony or Symphonic Orchestra at the end of the season. It is an unforgettable experience and concert performance! Click here for current CYO Symphony and Symphonic Orchestra members to register now.

Join CYO! Auditions for the 2026-2027 season are now open for new and current students who want to move up in the next season. CYO welcomes young musicians of all ages and experience levels. Come grow your skills, make lifelong friends, and experience the joy of making music together with us. Click here to learn more about our audition process and schedule an audition.

Concerts and Events

CYO Carnegie Hall

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News: CYO on Tour in New York City

CYO Performs at Carnegie Hall

The San Diego Civic Youth Orchestra led by Robert Gilson, conductor and music director, delivered a spectacular performance on the legendary Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall on June 21, 2024, as part of the Viennese Masters Orchestra Invitational. Their talent and passion captivated the audience, earning them thunderous standing ovations.

CYO at Knott's Berry Farm

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News: CYO perform at Knott's Berry Farm

CYO at Performance in the Park

Congratulations to our CYO musicians and conductors Shannon Yandall and Paul Wang on their outstanding performance at Knott's Berry Farm's Performance in the Park on April 20, 2024. It was truly an amazing experience for our young performers!

EMPOWER DREAMS

Help Cultivate the Next Generation of Young Musicians

Make a Difference Today

Generous parent and community support for CYO make it possible to continue our goal of providing the best music education and performance opportunities for our student musicians. Visit our donation site to learn how your gift can make a real difference.

Give to CYO