Raising Musicians:
Financial Aid
All students should have the opportunity to excel musically! The GCYO Board of Directors has established a scholarship fund to assist families with the high cost of raising a musician. Financial aid awards are made for private lessons, GCYO tuition fees, and summer music programs. Award is based on financial need, the student’s participation in GCYO, and a teacher recommendation.
GCYO Fee Assistance:
Application must be completed by September 15 (February 6 for Spring only Prelude and Wind Symphony). To apply for GCYO fee assistance go to Request for GCYO Fee Assistance
Financial Aid for Private Lessons:
This scholarship program is designed to ASSIST parents with the high cost of private lessons. Applicants must apply by September 30 (February 6 for Spring only Prelude and Wind Symphony).
Funds will be sent to the teacher or institution providing lessons.
To apply for financial assistance for private lessons go to Private Lesson Assistance
Financial Aid for Summer Studies:
Summer music camps and programs are an important part of a musicians advanced studies. They are also expensive! Application for summer studies assistance must be submitted by May 15th. These funds may also be used to cover private lessons over the summer. Funds will be sent directly to the camp or teacher.
To apply for financial assistance for a summer program go to Request for Summer Studies Scholarship
Scholarship Auditions
The GCYO Association offers two merit-based scholarship opportunities for our musicians. Auditions this year will be by submitted recordings. To be eligible to audition you must be in good standing with the orchestra you are currently in, have adhered to the attendance policy of GCYO, and have submitted your application by the publicized date. Unless you are applying for a Senior Scholarship you MUST be returning to GCYO in the fall!
Summer Studies Scholarships:
Summer Studies Scholarships are to be used for summer music programs or private lessons. This is open to all members of GCYO that are in good standing and are returning next year. There will be 1 – 2 scholarships awarded for each orchestra, amount to be determined by GCYO Board.
How to apply: Fill out and submit the application below by 5/11/2023. Applications submitted after the cutoff date will not be accepted.
Senior Scholarship:
Graduating seniors who will be pursuing a music degree in college may apply for the Senior Scholarship. There will be one scholarship awarded, amount to be determined by GCYO Board.
How to apply: Fill out and submit the application below by 5/11/2023. Applications submitted after the cutoff date will not be accepted!
Audition requirements and procedures
- Prepare a brief (no more than 5 minute) selection of solo repertoire. Be sure to select a solo that demonstrates your highest level of musicianship and technique.
- Make a video recording of your solo (cell phone recording are perfect). Be sure your recording shows you AND your instrument.
- Upload your video to google docs, YouTube, or other cloud storage and send the link to david.kiser@gcyo.net
- Recordings must be received by 05/11/2023
Scholarship Application Unchanged: Scholarship Application
Young Artist Orchestra (YAO) –
Our most advanced ensemble, most members are high school aged, though exceptional middle school musicians may be admitted. YAO performs standard orchestral masterworks as well as contemporary compositions.
View YAO Audition Requirements »
The Philharmonic –
An advanced symphony orchestra comprised of middle through high school aged musicians who display considerable talent, training and ability. Repertoire consists of orchestral masterworks, transcriptions and original works composed for student orchestra.
View The Philharmonic Audition Requirements »
Sinfonia –
Sinfonia is an advancing honors strings ensemble with the opportunity to perform Full Orchestra repertoire during the second concert cycle. Members of the Sinfonia Orchestra will experience opportunities to excel in their string performance skills through progressive string literature, including original works and arrangements, ranging from early baroque to new releases from the modern era. Consistent, instrument-specific sectionals with professional string educators, provide supplemental instruction for accelerated skill attainment.
