About the Orchestra

The Southtowns Youth Orchestra was founded in 1986 by Ellen Buxton and William Staebell.  They both sought a need for a community orchestra for advanced students to participate in on a regular basis.  When the group was formed it had less than 20 students the first year.  Today, the orchestra has over 90 members!  The Southtowns Youth Orchestra is a prestigious group that offers more challenging repertoire for students than the normal school orchestra. 

The opportunity for any student to participate in the SYO will further their growth in music, and help them to become more advanced in their musical careers. 

We encourage students of NYSSMA level 4 or higher to audition.