Pacific Symphony Youth Ensembles (PSYE) is one of the largest pre-professional musical training programs in the nation, nurturing and inspiring young musicians in grades 6 through 12. PSYE provides members with high-caliber and innovative artistic experiences, fostering musical development, personal growth and lifelong learning through the art of classical performance.

The program is comprised of four performing ensembles (Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra, Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble, Pacific Symphony Santiago Strings and Pacific Symphony Youth Concert Band), all of which are united by the artistic vision of Pacific Symphony Music Director Carl St.Clair. Each ensemble focuses on advancing student musicianship in a nurturing environment through professional repertoire and unique performance experiences. Students enjoy clinics with Music Director St.Clair, regular coaching sessions with Pacific Symphony professional musicians, and interactions with world-renowned guest artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Cho-Liang Lin, Narong Prangcharoen, Derrick Skye and many more.

​

Pacific Symphony Youth Ensemble Musicians

Pacific Symphony Youth Ensembles primarily perform in the world-class Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa and in various community venues across Orange County. These well-received performances are free to the public, are often "sold" out and touch the lives of thousands of Southern California residents.

Membership in PSYE is determined by an annual audition process, attracting an astonishing 680 candidates for the 2019-20 season. The 252 students who are current members of the Youth Ensembles program represent 75 school music programs in and around Orange County. Most if not all of PSYE’s graduates pursue higher education, attending such notable institutions as The Juilliard School, Johns Hopkins University/Peabody Institute, Harvard University, Brown University, Stanford University, UCLA and many more.