PremierYouth Orchestra in San Diego
Led by experienced music educators, our youth orchestra program offers students the chance to collaborate with professional musicians from the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra, helping young performers develop their skills, confidence, and lasting musical relationships.
The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra is a program of Mainly Mozart.
“From the very beginning, MMYO taught me to be a leader. "
-Max Opferkuch, San Diego Symphony Clarinet (MMYO Class of 2016)
Unparalleled Instruction
The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra is led by expert instructors with decades of teaching and performance experience. Students receive exceptional musical training while gaining the rare opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside professional musicians from the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra—one of the nation’s premier gatherings of concertmasters and principal players.
Together, they create an inspiring environment where young musicians build technical skill, confidence, and a lifelong passion for music.
Integrating Students of All Abilities and Backgrounds
At Mainly Mozart, we are committed to providing an inclusive music program where every student feels welcome and supported. We actively create opportunities for students of all abilities—including those with cognitive and physical differences—to participate, learn, and perform.
Through collaboration, personalized support, and a shared love of music, students grow in confidence, develop their skills, and become part of a diverse and supportive musical community.
Make music | Make friends | Make memories |
Make music | Make friends | Make memories |
Audition Requirements & Guidelines
Learn everything you need to know to audition for our ensembles — from scales and repertoire excerpts to submission instructions and helpful preparation tips. Discover how you can become part of the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra and take the next step in your musical journey!
Instruments Still Needed by Ensemble for the 2025/2026 Season:
Prelude Strings: Double Bass
Intermediate Strings: Viola & Double Bass
Concert Band: French Horn
Intermediate Orchestra/Concert Band: Bassoon, French Horn, Trombone, & Tuba
Intermediate Orchestra: Viola & Double Bass
Advanced Orchestra: French Horn, Trombone, & Double Bass
Start Your Musical Journey with MMYO
Join our entry-level orchestras and classes, specially designed for students with little or no prior experience. Our supportive instructors help beginners build a strong foundation in technique, rhythm, and ensemble playing — all while discovering the joy of making music together. It’s the perfect first step into the world of orchestral performance!
Upcoming Events
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![Sheet music with sunlight creating a rainbow reflection on it.]()
2026/2027 Online Auditions - Closed
If you have questions about auditioning for the 2026/2027 Season, please send us an email.
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![A young man playing a trombone, dressed in a black suit, standing in front of a music stand with sheet music, with a backdrop of green drapery and wooden slat wall panels.]()
Senior Showcase Recital
San Dieguito United Methodist Church
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Begins at 7PMFree public recital featuring the talented-graduating seniors of the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra
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![An indoor concert hall filled with an audience watching an orchestra perform on stage. The orchestra is led by a conductor, and the audience is seated in red chairs, some taking pictures. There are large wooden beams on the ceiling, and musical equipment and microphones are set up on the stage.]()
Intermediate Orchestra Community Concert
Parish Hall @St. James Catholic Church
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Begins at 2:30PMFree public community concert featuring a Brass Quintet, two String Quartets, and the full Intermediate Orchestra. Space is limited.
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![An orchestra on stage with young musicians holding violins, cellos, and wind instruments, led by a conductor in a black suit with a red tie and white shirt, clapping.]()
Advanced Orchestra Season Finale
PAC at Lincoln High School
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Begins at 7PMEnjoy a powerful performance by the Advanced Orchestra of the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra. This Season Finale highlights the skill and artistry of our most experienced young musicians as they perform a dynamic program of classical works.
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![Children in black clothes playing violins and cellos on stage during an orchestra performance.]()
Training Groups Season Finale
PAC at Lincoln High School
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Begins at 2PMEnd-of the year concert featuring the Suzuki Stars, Suzuki Comets, Prelude Strings, & Intermediate Strings.
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![Young musicians preparing for a concert on stage with various instruments, including woodwinds, brass, percussion, keyboard, and gongs, in a concert hall.]()
Concert Band & Intermediate Orchestra Season Finale
PAC at Lincoln High School
Sunday, May 31, 2026
Begins at 4PM
End-of year concert featuring the Concert Band & Intermediate Orchestra.
The Latest Updates…
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Endangered Instruments Still Needed
Searching for double bass, French Horn, trombone, tuba, bassoon, and viola players for the 2025/2026 Season!
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2025/2026 Suzuki Stars Registration Open
No experience is required to join!
Follow Us on YouTube
Stay connected with the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra by subscribing to our YouTube channel.
Experience the magic of our past performances and get an exclusive first look at upcoming concerts. Join our online community and enjoy the inspiring music brought to life by our talented young musicians anytime, anywhere. Don’t miss a moment—subscribe today!
Contact Us
Please contact us with any questions you may have.
Email
joseph@mainlymozart.org
Phone
(619) 231-0100 ext. 303
Community Sponsors and Partners
