Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra hosts open house & Chamber Music Concert April 10

On Sunday, April 10, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra is holding an open house for student musicians and their families from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at Elgin Community College Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive.

EYSO, with nearly 300 students from 70 communities, has opportunities for instrumentalists in 4th grade through college. Student musicians, playing their instruments from two years to 12, can find a place to thrive in one of nine ensembles. EYSO offers an engaging musical experience through a comprehensive learning environment which promotes curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking.

Drop-ins are welcome, although registration is suggested. Registration and rehearsal times for ensembles can found at www.eyso.org/openhouse.

In conjunction with open house, EYSO Spring Chamber Music Institute Concerts will take place in the ECC Spartan Auditorium at 12:45, 2, and 4:30 p.m. Admission is free. Masks and ID with proof of vaccination or negative COVID test is required for patrons 12 and older.

The concerts may also be viewed on at www.eyso.org/cmiconcert, free of charge.

About one-third of EYSO members are enrolled in the Chamber Music Institute, taking part in an ensemble experience that sharpens vital listening skills and provides further invaluable musicianship training.

The Illinois Council of Orchestras has honored EYSO with three prestigious awards in the past two years: 2022 Programming of the Year and Community/Small Orchestra Conductor of the Year (recognizing Artistic Director Matthew Sheppard) and 2021 Illinois Youth Orchestra of the Year.

The mission of EYSO is to create a community of young musicians, enriching their lives and the lives of their families, schools, communities, and beyond, through the study and performance of excellent music. Visit www.eyso.org to learn more.