About the Wellington Youth Orchestra

Established in 1959, the Wellington Youth Orchestra is a full symphonic orchestra for players aged between 12 and 25. 

The Orchestra's three primary objectives are to: 

• provide the opportunity for young people to play in a symphony orchestra
• develop confidence and skill in the techniques of orchestral playing
• foster an appreciation and understanding of orchestral music 

Each year (in June) we hold a concerto competition for Orchestra members, the winner, and possibly the runner-up, playing a concerto of their choice in the Wellington Town Hall. 

Members of the Orchestra include performance music students from the New Zealand School of Music. For many New Zealand musicians, the Youth Orchestra has been a stepping-stone to a successful career in music. 

In addition to weekly rehearsals, there are a number of one-day workshops and tutorial sessions held at various times with some of New Zealand's finest musicians.