Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra
Young Artist Academy (YAA!)

What is the Young Artist Academy?

The Young Artist Academy (YAA) is a free program for talented and motivated young musicians.  It is primarily dedicated to nurturing the full development of young musicians in the Greater New Orleans area.  YAA is a comprehensive program where young artists from 1st to 8th grades are selected through an audition process.  Once accepted, students receive 8 private lessons and 8 coachings in a chamber group setting aiming to enhance their full musical development free of charge.

Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra What instruments will be taught?

  • Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass
  • Woodwind: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon
  • Brass: Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba
  • Percussion: Mallet instruments (Xylophone, Marimba), Snare, Bass drum & Timpani

How can I join the YAA?

All interested students must submit a complete application.  Applications must include the application form, a written personal statement that succinctly explains (one half to one page) why the applicant is interested and should be considered for this program, and two letters of recommendation from a school/private teacher and another adult (non-relative) who has had interaction with the applicant. After the completed application is received, applicants will be contacted with the time of the audition.  Special consideration will be given to promising young people with financial hardships.

Why should I audition?

You should audition to have the opportunity to take part in this one-of-a-kind program.  Enrollment is limited as we are initially accepting only 20 students.  What do I play for the audition?  Remember this is an informative 10-minute audition.  You may sing, play an instrument or present anything that displays your talent.  We might ask you to sing and clap a particular rhythm which we will provide to you.  We may also ask you some questions such as: "Why would you like to be considered for this program?"

Do I need to have my own instrument?

We have instruments available for you to use while in the program if you do not already have your own.  Why should I consider this great opportunity? Being designated as a young artist entitles you to free instruction with amazing teachers who use various methods such as the Suzuki method and traditional methods.  It will allow you to develop and solidify your skills as a young musician.  You will perform a final performance and receive a certificate of achievement at the end of the session.  This is truly exciting!

Curriculum As a Young Artist

You are expected to attend weekly lessons and coachings during the session.  GNOYO provides a professional teacher to work with each student and ensemble.  Teachers, coaches and members are responsible for planning their rehearsal and coaching schedule for the session.  Lessons and Ensembles meet on Saturday mornings from 9:00am to 12:00 (noon) at Loyola University College of Music Building.  All individuals and ensembles are required to perform in the Spring Recital.

Total tuition for YAA: $0.00.


Schedule

The GNOYO Young Artist Academy is a serious commitment to yourself, your peers, your teacher and your coach.  ALL members are expected to attend ALL lessons, coachings, and ALL performances.  Mark rehearsals and performances on your calendar NOW and be in touch regularly with your teacher, coach and other group members.

Lessons/Rehearsals

Lesson times will be set by the teachers and their students.  Coaching times should be set by the coach and all ensemble members.  Lessons and coaching sessions will take place at Loyola University's College of Music and Fine Arts building on Saturday mornings from 9:00 am to 12:00 (noon).

Program dates:

  • February 23 Audition (8:30am-1:30pm) (first come, first served basis)
  • March  8, 15, 29
  • April 5, 12, 19, 26
  • May 3  Final Lesson/Dress rehearsal
  • May 4 Final performance 1:00pm

Required Performances

Roussel Hall, Sunday, May 4, 2008 from 1:00pm-3:00pm Performance times and concert order are set by the Program Director

Readmission requirements

Following successful completion of the spring 2008 session, students will be evaluated by their teachers and coaches and recommended for future sessions of the program. 

Application

Download the application in PDF format. Complete the application and return it to us according to the instructions on the application.