Youth String Orchestras at the GYMC
The GYMC Junior and Intermediate String Orchestras provide young string players with the opportunity to enhance their orchestral and musical skills, engage in community performances, and make music with their peers.
2026/2027 GYMC Youth String Orchestras
Registration is now open!
Scroll to the bottom of this page to register!
The GYMC String Orchestra Program runs from September to May with rehearsals taking place on Saturday mornings. The program is suitable for string players aged 9 and older who play at or above RCM Level 4 or Suzuki Book 3. Both orchestras are directed by Joy Schuster.
PROGRAM DATES 2026-2027:
Junior Orchestra Rehearsals: Saturdays 9:45–10:45am
Intermediate Orchestra Rehearsals: Saturdays 11:00–12:15pm
Session 1: September 12 – December 12, 2026
Session 2: January 9 – May 8, 2027
Annual Registration Cost: $475
Registration includes:
Weekly Saturday morning rehearsals
Orchestra Retreat – September 19-20, 2026
GYMC String Orchestra uniform (black collared shirt)
Public performances throughout the year: February 17, 2027 + more TBC
Winter 2026 Concert: Saturday, December 12, 2026 @ 2:00pm
Spring 2027 Concert: Saturday, May 8, 2027 @ 2:00pm
PREREQUISITES:
Junior Orchestra: RCM level 4-5 or Suzuki book 3-4
Intermediate Orchestra: RCM level 6+ or Suzuki book 5+
AUDITIONS:
The recommendation of your teacher is often all that is needed. We will contact you if an audition is required.
OPEN REHEARSAL:
Interested in joining one of the Guelph Youth Music Centre’s Youth String Orchestras? We will hold an open rehearsal on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 10:30-11:00am. Come and play, or simply observe! Following the rehearsal there will be a short Q&A. Please RSVP by contacting the GYMC
POLICIES:
For detailed information on cancellations, withdrawals, or weather-related closures, please consult the GYMC Group Class Policies.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE:
We are committed to making our classes accessible to all, regardless of financial situations. For families requiring financial assistance, please inquire about our Bursary program by emailing office@gymc.ca
The GYMC partners with the Children’s Foundation of Guelph to provide a number of free registration places to eligible applicants through the Free to GROW program. Please visit the Children’s Foundation website for more information.
REGISTRATION
To register, fill out either the JUNIOR or INTERMEDIATE form (see below) and submit payment. Then your registration will be complete. Do not login to your My Music Staff account to register. You won't be able to register through there. It's just done through the form. Those wishing to pay offline, with cheque, cash, or e-transfer, please email us at office@gymc.ca.
Please note: The annual registration cost is automatically charged in full online. If you are looking to pay in instalments, please contact the office.
