Ensembles

RSYO Symphonic Orchestra

The main ensemble consists of approximately 50 advanced young musicians and performs standard symphonic repertoire. RSYO rehearses weekly on Sunday afternoons for twelve weeks and has one performance per semester. The RSYO experience includes performances with student concerto competition winners, side-by-side performances with RSO musicians, access to attend RSO concerts, as well as the enjoyment of being a part of a community of other young musicians!

Honors Chamber Orchestra

A select group of the RSYO’s most advanced students, membership is available only to current Full Orchestra members, and only by special invitation of the conductor. The Chamber Orchestra rehearses weekly and performs more challenging repertoire. The Honors Chamber Orchestra has an additional performance per semester.

Sterling String Quartet

Four exceptional string players are chosen each year to form the Sterling String Quartet. The Quartet receives separate coaching and performs as a representative of the RSYO at various venues throughout the Rockford area, including in the lobby of the Coronado Theater before RSO concerts. Members of the Quartet receive scholarships.

The Sterling String Quartet is named in honor of Bill and Marian Sterling whose gift to the RSO includes an annual contribution to fund coaching for the Quartet.

Woodwind Quintet

Per student availability, five wind players are chosen each year to be a part of the Woodwind Quintet. The Quintet receives separate coaching and performs as a representative of the RSYO at various venues throughout the Rockford area. Members of the Quintet receive scholarships.