Starter Strings is our beginning string ensemble. In this class, students from grades 3 and up are introduced to the string instrument of their choice (violin, viola, cello, or string bass). 45-minute group lessons are held at several sites throughout the Springfield area, including elementary schools and other locations throughout Springfield. Musicians use the method book Sound Innovations for Strings Book I to assist with learning the fundamental skills needed to play a string instrument.
Junior Strings is a string orchestra for musicians learning and perfecting the skills presented in Essential Elements for Strings or Sound Innovations for String Orchestra Book 1. Musicians will remain in Junior Strings until they have completed and mastered the entire Book 1. This typically takes an additional one to two years after completing Starter Strings. Musicians will also begin to develop ensemble skills by learning and performing quality string orchestra literature that meets their ability level.
SVYS provides three advanced youth ensembles. Following an audition, students are placed in one of these ensembles approporate to their experience and ability.
Preparatory Orchestra is a string orchestra for musicians who have completed and mastered skills presented in Essential Elements For Strings Book 1. Musicians will continue to learn new technical skills while working through Essential Elements for Strings Book 2. They will develop ensemble skills by learning and performing quality string orchestra literature that meets their ability level. Musicians typically remain in Preparatory Orchestra for two to three years.
Sinfonia Orchestra is the string orchestra for musicians who have mastered all of the skills presented in Sound Innovations for String Orchestra or Essential Elements for Strings Book 2. They will continue to learn new technical skills while working through a Level 3 method book. Additionally, musicians will continue to develop ensemble skills by learning and performing high quality string orchestra literature that meets their ability level. Musicians typically remain in Sinfonia Orchestra for two to four years.
Youth Symphony is a full orchestra comprised of strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Members will perform a diverse cross-section of pieces from the orchestral repertoire as they develop as musicians and orchestral players.
Chamber Music is an optional program for Youth Symphony musicians, who are coached by our experienced staff. There are performance opportunities throughout the season.
Register
Click the Register Now button at the left of this page for the group you wish to join. You will be directed to the Intent To Enroll online form.
There is a non-refundable $25.00 registration fee, payable when you register. This fee applies toward your season tuition if you are accepted into SVYS.
Audition
Auditions are completed for this season. Please contact SVYS if you are a late registrant.
Pay Tuition
Pay tuition online or by check at or before the Parent Meeting at the first rehearsal. Find the date of your first rehearsal on the SVYS calendar.
Use the button below if you have PRE-PAID the $25.00 registration fee.
Use the button below if you have NOT PRE-PAID the $25.00 registration fee.
Tuition partially offsets the costs of administration and artistic direction and must be paid at the first rehearsal and mandatory parent meeting. Tuition rates are per year.
Your $25.00 registration fee will be credited in full toward the season tuition.
Need-based financial aid is available. We are committed to serving talented, dedicated students, regardless of financial constraints. Please call the office for more information.
Rehearsals are held once per week. HCFTA indicates the Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62701.