Bay Area Youth Symphony enables students across the Southeast Houston area an opportunity to perform in a high level musical ensemble, while enriching their musical education. Our ambition is to provide the talented students of our communities, the opportunity to become involved in a youth organization that will not only achieve musical excellence, but will also bring forth an appreciation and support for the arts in the greater Houston area.

We will open our season with three orchestras (Symphony, Philharmonic, and Preparatory) comprised of students of all age levels meeting the criteria set forth in the audition requirements.

Audition times will be scheduled upon receipt of the application and $ 25.00 audition fee (Checks made payable to BAYS). The audition time is approximately 10 minutes per audition. Auditions are closed to parents and the general public.

Audition Requirements

• Symphony Orchestra


• Philharmonic Orchestra


• Preparatory Orchestra

*All-State players are automatically accepted into BAYS without an audition with proof of recent All-State membership.

Age Requirements
students ages 6 – 21 will have an opportunity to perform in the various BAYS ensembles with other talented students from our area.

School Participation
In order to participate in BAYS, all students must have written approval from their school orchestra or band director if such a program exists.

Attendance Policy
Attendance at all rehearsals is expected. Specific rules and guidelines are contained in our handbook, which is given to students when they accept a position in BAYS.

Fees and Tuition
The audition fee is $25.00 and is non-refundable and must be paid in order to be given an audition date and time. Tuition for the second season is $400.00 and covers all concerts, rehearsals, sectional coaches, concert venues, music, a BAYS t-shirt, window decal, and fees and services paid out through BAYS from September to May.  BAYS is a non-profit organization so tuition rates are based solely on the needs to make the organization to operate and manage its monetary needs. $100.00 is due upon acceptance into BAYS. Tuition may be paid in full or in $100 installments. For instruments such as the harp that might not be used for every concert, tuition will be pro-rated. BAYS accepts checks, money orders or cash. We do not accept credit cards.

Financial Aid
BAYS provides financial assistance for those in need. No student accepted will be excluded based on financial hardship. IRS non-profit organization guidelines require proof of financial need based on providing a copy of the first two pages of your most recent Federal Income Tax Return.  Recipients of financial assistance will be asked to serve to help BAYS in some way.

Click Here For The Application (PDF)