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Programs

From picking up an instrument for the very first time to taking a bow on stage at the Kennedy Center, DCYOP is with you every step of the way.

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DCYOP offers comprehensive group lessons and ensemble training on all orchestral instruments for students ages 4 ½ to 18. More than 600 students participate in group classes, ensemble rehearsals, and performances each semester through our main-site programming at Takoma Education Campus as well as through our school partnerships. We are the only preK-12 program in the DC area that seeks to make high quality ensemble music education available to all students, regardless of background, socioeconomic status, or ability.

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Our programs

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Ensembles

Nine ensembles to meet the developing needs of musicians at every level.

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Beginner lessons

Take the first steps with your child on their musical journey in our beginner group lessons.

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More Opportunities

Masterclasses and scholarships that enrich experiences

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School partnerships

DCYOP partners with schools to support in- and out-of-school time orchestra programs through DC’s Office of Out of School Time Grants and Youth Outcomes.

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International tour

Touring is a transformational experience our students look forward to for years. Students experience a new culture and foods, see how orchestras work in another part of the world, and share time with friends who share a passion for music, away from the stresses of daily lives, with some independence to explore, as well. Many alumni remember it as their defining experience with the organization.

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Testimonials

DCYOP is the orchestra program where I’ve most grown in my musicianship and the place where I’ve been introduced to the most classical music. There hasn’t been an experience here that I haven’t enjoyed. One of my favorite experiences with DCYOP was my first performance. This was my first orchestra performance ever! I was extremely nervous that I would mess up. I played well in the concert, and numerous people congratulated me afterwards. It felt amazing.

Austin AdaranijoFrench horn player, Youth Orchestra

I was in DCYOP for 13 years and it shaped me so much as a person. Deciding to learn violin at DCYOP was the best decision I could have made. I met many of my best friends through the program and was given opportunities that I would never have had, had it not been for the program. I cherished my time greatly and I will be back to visit!

Lucy BolducRecent alumna

It is important to me to give back to the community what it gave me as a child. I was fortunate enough to have been given so many opportunities in my youth to grow my musical education. I decided to come back to DCYOP as a teacher so that I can help the next generation of musicians find their own passions and guide them towards their own musical and personal success. I want to be a part of an organization that gives every child who wants to learn a memorable experience with music, and DCYOP does just that.

Sydney EbersohlDCYOP alumna and former teaching artist

The students are having fun. They’re growing and they’re accomplishing something together. And I think with where we are as a country right now, to be able to pull a very diverse group of kids together, have them playing some awesome classical music? It’s really broadening their horizons and helping them be great citizens in the future. I can’t talk more highly about it, so it’s been a great experience for us.

Paul GayCurrent DCYOP parent

Events

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Family and Student Orientation Day

All Beginner Program and Ensemble Students

September 7, 2024 view more details