Professional Orchestra Training for Young Musicians in the Heart of Western Sydney

Penrith Youth Orchestra (PYO) offers young musicians aged 6-25 the chance to develop their skills in a dynamic and supportive environment. Led by professional tutors from the Penrith Symphony Orchestra (PSO) and Penrith Conservatorium of Music, PYO provides exceptional orchestral training designed to complement and enhance the individual musical development of its members.

The orchestra is an ideal platform for primary and secondary students, as well as young musicians looking to refine their skills and experience orchestral performance.

Throughout each term, PYO members engage in full orchestra rehearsals, sectional tutorials, and workshops with expert mentors. Under the baton of PSO’s Artistic Director, Dr. Paul Terracini, students have the opportunity to work alongside professional musicians and prepare for live performances.

Applications for PYO Term 2 are now open

For more information, contact us at:
pyo@penrith.city

How to Apply

No audition is required to join Penrith Youth Orchestra.
Places are allocated according to performance standard and ensemble experience.
We welcome all applications, even if students are slightly below the recommended performance standards.

Strings

Violin: Grade 5 AMEB/Suzuki Book 5 (or equivalent) and above
Viola: Grade 3 AMEB/Suzuki Book 3 (or equivalent) and above
Cello: Grade 5 AMEB/Suzuki Book 4 (or equivalent) and above
Double Bass: Grade 3 AMEB/Suzuki Book 3 (or equivalent) and above

Woodwind, Brass & Percussion

All Instruments: Grade 4 AMEB (or equivalent) and above

APPLY NOW

What is included

Each term, PYO students will benefit from:

  • Improve individual musicianship and ensemble skills through expert coaching.
  • Sectional tutorials and workshops with professional orchestral mentors
  • Mentoring by Paul Terracini, Artistic Director, Penrith Symphony Orchestra.
  • Live performance opportunities
  • Receive ongoing feedback and build connections with peers and professionals.

Students are expected to:

  • Learn their part and study the repertoire before the first rehearsal
  • Practice between rehearsals to meet tutor standards
  • Attend all rehearsals and performances, unless exempted by PYO staff
  • Actively collaborate with fellow musicians

MORE INFO

2025 Dates

TERM 1 – PYO Academy with Australian Chamber Orchestra
Dates: 28 February | 1 March | 2 March

TERM 2with Valda Silvy Ensemble
Dates: 11 May | 18 May | 25 May

TERM 3with Australian Haydn Ensemble
Dates: 7 September | 14 September

TERM 4 with Richard Bonynge Ensemble
Dates: 2 November | 9 November | 16 November

Term Fees

$180 per student, each term.
$160 per student, each term, when enrolling for a full semester (2 terms).

Entry into the PYO is merit-based, not cost-based.
Financial assistance is made available for eligible applicants.

Please email us to enquire confidentially or to apply for an equity scholarship.

pyo@penrith.city

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Performances

Upcoming Performances and events by Penrith Youth Orchestra

Experience the creativity, passion, and skill of our young musicians as they showcase their artistry in a series of exciting performances.

Visit the What’s On page for more details.

Read More
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Our History

Building the Future of Music:
The Story and Growth of Penrith Youth Orchestra

Learn more about the journey of Penrith Youth Orchestra, its evolution since 2018, and the passionate team of professionals and partners dedicated to its success.

About Penrith Youth Orchestra
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Stage Management Training

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