The Youth Orchestras of Essex County has four performing groups:
- Essex County Symphony Orchestra
- Junior Symphony
- Overture Strings
- Chamber Ensembles
The orchestras were founded in 1956 under the sponsorship of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra and the West Orange Public Schools. As one of New Jersey’s most outstanding youth orchestras, YOEC offer excellent programs to young musicians from Essex and neighboring counties who participate in their school orchestras and study privately.
Why join YOEC?
Youth orchestras offer student musicians an opportunity to expand and deepen their musical abilities while making friends and learning from professional musicians. YOEC musicians are expected to participate in school music programs, if available, and while we have an attendance policy, YOEC conductors generally offer excused absences for conflicts for regional and all-state orchestras and school music concerts and productions.
How do musicians benefit?
- Improved instrumental music sight-reading and performance skills
- Discipline, including committing to home practice, attending regular rehearsals and paying attention during rehearsals and performances
- An atmosphere of professionalism in which to grow musically
- Exposure to high-level cultural experiences and resources
- Play alongside highly accomplished professional musicians
What do we do for the community?
- Bring high quality performances to diverse audiences throughout Essex County
- Offer all affordability for all musicians through modest tuition and scholarships
- Bring concerts to people who cannot get out to hear us play
