Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra

The Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra Mission

To nourish the hearts and minds of young musicians through challenging and rewarding orchestral experiences.

What is GNOYO?

The Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra (GNOYO) has been recognized both locally and nationally for its commitment to music education.  Now in its fourteenth season, GNOYO provides young musicians the opportunity to participate in a Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestrahigh-quality full orchestra program.  Participants significantly improve individual performance and ensemble skills, while developing professional attitudes and discipline, which empower them to take initiative in their schools and community and to pursue individual and team excellence in all life endeavors.  GNOYO's exciting concerts include music ranging from Stravinsky's Firebird Suite and Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture to John Williams' Jurassic Park.  

To encourage the broadest participation possible GNOYO has five orchestras:

  • Sinfonia
  • Northshore Sinfonia
  • Philharmonia
  • Northshore Sinfonia
  • Symphony

Three orchestras rehearse on Saturday afternoons in New Orleans at Loyola University New Orleans .  Two orchestras serve the Northshore, rehearsing on Thursday afternoons at Mandeville High School. The Northshore Sinfonia and Sinfonia build a firm foundation in ensemble playing for string students with two to five years playing experience.  The Northshore Philharmonia and Philharmonia, the intermediate level ensembles, are full symphonic orchestras consisting of strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion.  The Symphony (also a full orchestra), offers advanced musicians the opportunity to learn and perform standard orchestral works.

More than 160 young people aged seven to nineteen currently participate in this growing independent non-profit organization. Attracting participants from as far as 120 miles away, GNOYO is committed to making its program accessible to all area youth, regardless of their families' financial capabilities.

GNOYO Core Values

  • Playing orchestral music as a joyful and moving experience
  • Demonstrating high artistic values
  • Challenging the individual to reach his or her potential
  • Promoting positive self-esteem
  • Developing friendships
  • Inspiring mutual respect, support, and teamwork
  • Encouraging leadership and being positive role models
  • Promoting diversity through outreach and community involvement
  • Instilling a sense of personal responsibility