Student Guidelines & Requirements
The Bay Area Youth Symphony Offers:
- A supplement to the student’s school music program
- Excellent instruction from professional conductors and section coaches
- An exciting collaboration of advanced and dedicated student musicians from across southeast Texas
- Performances in high quality concert venues
- A wide range of repertoire from different periods and styles of music
The Symphony orchestra will consist of approximately 100 members and is geared towards the advanced level player. Repertoire includes music on the university and professional levels. Sectionals explore the interpretive and more complex aspects of orchestral music. Winners of the annual Concerto Competition are featured in concert with the Symphony.
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.
Age Requirements
BAYS accepts talented string, wind, and percussionists ages 5 to 21.
Attendance Policy
Attendance at all rehearsals is expected. Specific rules and guidelines are in our handbook which is available for download here and will be given to students at the first rehearsal of the season. Students will earn a BAYS patch if they miss no fewer than 2 rehearsals. Students must notify the conductor 4 weeks prior to missing a rehearsal if there is a schedule conflict in order to be excused. Examples of a missed rehearsal might be a school band trip or senior musical performance. Check the calendar for rehearsal schedule.
