Okanagan Symphony Youth Orchestra

The Okanagan Symphony Youth Orchestra (OSYO) is a year-long rigorous orchestral educational program for self-motivated young musicians to play challenging and rewarding orchestral music and improve their rehearsal and performance skills. As well as presenting its own biannual concert series, the program provides opportunities to work with OSO musicians in a series of sectional-based rehearsals, participate in a composition program, hone skills through masterclasses and participate in other OSO community engagement programs as opportunities present themselves.

The OSYO program is an integral part of the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra’s community engagement programs. It is currently in its 36th season and led by conductor Zeena Zaiyouna.

The Okanagan Symphony Youth Orchestra began as the Youth Symphony of the Okanagan in 1988, founded by renowned composer Imant Raminsh. Between 2010-2023 the program was run and expanded by co-conductors​ Dennis Colpitts and Rosemary Thomson.

Learn more about the OSYO Program:

REHEARSE

REHEARSE

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GROW

GROW

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PERFORM

PERFORM

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CONNECT

CONNECT

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If you have any further questions about the OSYO please contact: [email protected]

The OSYO is thankful for the support of these 2024-2025 sponsors:

Harmony Acura logo

OSYO Program Sponsor

Composition Program Sponsor

Support the OSYO

Three ways to support the Okanagan Symphony Youth Orchestra:

OSYO Mentorship Fund

The Mentorship Fund was established in 2019 by June Nicolay in honour of the passing of her husband Dietz Nicolay to support student bursaries, sectionals, and specialized activities of the OSYO.

Chair Sponsorship Program

The OSYO Chair Sponsorship Program personalizes your youth orchestra experience and brings a new perspective to the music you love.

OSYO Program Support

Registration fees do not fully cover the operating costs associated with the youth orchestra program. Your additional support ensures that valley music students get a rigorous orchestral education.