Established in 1945, San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory is the 6th oldest continuously operating youth symphony in the United States, serving close to 600 beginning through pre-professional student musicians annually in 13 full orchestras and large ensembles. Through SDYS’ flagship ensemble program in Balboa Park, its neighborhood engagement projects, and its early childhood music curriculum, SDYS is San Diego’s most comprehensive provider of ‘cradle through college’ music education programs and a national leader in innovative community engagement, serving thousands of young musicians and their families each year.
The San Diego Youth Symphony is a proud member of the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership, a collaboration of 26 arts, science, and cultural institutions in San Diego’s Balboa Park.
Upcoming Events

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES
International Youth Symphony Concert: Twilight in the Park
ChIMES “Picnic with a Purpose” – Support the M. Adler Lindberg Family Scholarship Fund
Be sure to check the COVID-19 event policy on each event listing prior to attending or purchasing tickets.

REGISTRATION for the 2021-2022 SEASON
Our primary registration period for the 2022-23 season is now closed.
We are continuing to accept auditions for the following instruments:
- Strings: Viola and bass only
- Winds: Oboe and bassoon only
- Brass: Trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, and tuba
- Percussion
Marching band students who play the above-mentioned instruments may also audition (for any SDYS ensemble) until August 1, and join mid-year.

UPCOMING DONOR EVENTS
Be sure to check the COVID-19 event policy on each event listing prior to attending or purchasing tickets.
Announcements & Recent News
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Meet Our Students
Conservatory Programs
Ovation Ensembles
Encourages our intermediate-level students to participate in both an orchestra and a wind ensemble and exposes them to diverse musical literature.
Showcase Ensembles
Encourages our intermediate-level students to participate in both an orchestra and a wind ensemble and exposes them to diverse musical literature.
Inspiration Ensembles
Offers quality foundational ensembles that develop technical, collaborative, and musical skills as they progress on their instruments.
Community Programs
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The Opus Project
The Opus Project includes after school instrumental orchestra and band programs for students in Chula Vista.
Supporting Music in Schools
SDYS supports many school programs across San Diego County to help in their development or expansion of in-school music.
ChIMES Early Childhood Music
ChIMES (Childhood Introduction to Music Education, with Smiles) highlights one of the most integral phases of child growth and development, from birth to age 5.
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