About the RPYO
A program of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) Education Department, the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (RPYO) in association with the Eastman Community Music School motivates its student musicians to achieve excellence in performance and a life-long love of music as music professionals or dedicated amateurs and friends of music. Weekly rehearsals, coaching by RPO musicians, an annual Side-by-Side Concert with the RPO, concerts in Rochester’s major performance halls, and periodic trips or other special activities provide musically rich, personally rewarding, and uniquely maturing experiences.
Since 1970, the RPYO has offered our community’s most advanced young musician’s orchestral experiences of the highest order. More than 2,100 of the Rochester area’s most talented musicians in grades 8-12 have experienced the challenges and rewards of learning symphonic masterworks while playing in the RPYO. More than 200 of them have performed in professional music ensembles, including other major symphony orchestras. Six RPYO alumni currently perform with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Many others perform in semi-professional and community groups in diverse musical genres. Hundreds have become dedicated music educators (more than 30 in Rochester area schools), as well as composers, conductors, and arts administrators.
Today, the leadership of RPO Assistant Conductor Jherrard Hardeman and the official partnership with the ECMS bring the RPYO to new heights. The partnership allows the RPYO to now serve as an “in house” large orchestra experience for ECMS students. RPYO students gain all ECMS benefits, such as rehearsing on the Eastman campus (EEW415), accessing the Sibley Music Library, and having free admission to many Eastman performances.
Pittsford Federal Credit Union
(2023-24 RPYO Sponsor)
PFCU has served members since 1968 with financial resources, competitive products, and world-class service. Founded by Pittsford schoolteachers, PFCU has deep roots in community education.
This commitment is exemplified by their support of the RPYO, including impactful experiences like the retreat.
Thank you, Pittsford Federal Credit Union!
OUR OFFICEs
255 East Avenue, LL02
Rochester, NY, 14604
REHEARSAL LOCATION
Eastman School of Music
Eastman East Wing (EEW) 415
433 East Main St
Rochester, NY, 14604
EASTMAN COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL OFFICE
Suite 321, 3rd floor of Messinger Hall
10 Gibbs Street
Rochester, NY, 14604
Mail:
Eastman Community Music School
26 Gibbs Street, Box 26
Rochester, NY, 14604