East Texas Youth Orchestra announces new ensembles

TYLER – East Texas Youth Orchestra, Inc. is proud to announce two new ensembles: the return of the Preparatory Orchestra and the addition of Junior Jazz to our Jazz Academy for Spring 2021.

After years of its absence, East Texas Youth Orchestra (ETYO) is excited and eager to open enrollment for the spring season of 2021 for the once-prominent Preparatory Orchestra. The Preparatory Orchestra is a strings-only program suited for musicians who have at least one full year of experience with bowing techniques and reading music. They will continue to develop their technique and ensemble skills through rehearsals and performances in preparation for advancement up to our Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestras.

“We are excited to expand our offerings in our community. From the moment I arrived at ETYO, I have felt strongly about bringing back the Preparatory Orchestra. Engaging musicians at such a young age is essential to the longevity of the arts across our industry. In addition to the Preparatory Orchestra, it’s exciting that we’re also bringing jazz to younger musicians through our Junior Jazz ensemble. Providing life-changing experiences through music is at the core of what we do, and we look forward to providing that for more young musicians," said Felix Torres, Artistic and Executive Director and conductor of the Symphony and Preparatory Orchestras.

Additionally, ETYO is also introducing a new Jazz Academy program. The Junior Jazz will also feature musicians who have at least one full year of playing experience on their instrument and can read music. The program is designed to encourage young musicians with jazz aspirations and interest to learn about the fundamentals of improvisation. Junior jazz welcomes any instrument type.

Dr. Sarah Roberts, Director of Operations and Jazz Academy and conductor of the Jazz Academy Lab Band and Junior Jazz, explains, “I am so excited to start Junior Jazz to help young musicians of any instrument learn the roots of jazz. After a fantastic response during the last three and a half years with the ETYO Jazz Academy Lab Band, the Junior Jazz will help provide a training ground for musicians. Additionally, it is an opportunity, unlike any other!”

Since the beginning, the mission of East Texas Youth Orchestra, Inc. (ETYO) has been to provide exceptional musical experiences in arts education through a diverse set of programs providing performances that enrich its members and the community. With the addition of these new programs, despite a year of uncertainty in the arts community, ETYO is ready to stand behind its mission and musicians for decades to come.

The Preparatory Orchestra and Junior Jazz join our Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonic Orchestra, and Jazz Academy Lab Band. Auditions for all ETYO ensembles are currently open for qualifying students ready to join these programs for Spring 2021.

Learn more about auditions and requirements by visiting etyo.org/auditions.