Established as an independent organization in 1977, the New Jersey State Youth Orchestra (NJSYO) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and a New Jersey registered charity. The NJSYO provides musical education to young people and orchestral and ensemble performances to the community. Students are grouped by age and ability into a Preparatory String Orchestra, Intermediate String Orchestra, and Symphonic Youth Orchestra.
The NJSYO hosts a Concerto Competition program to provide additional performance opportunities to advanced young musicians. We also offer an award-winning Chamber Ensemble to provide advanced students the opportunity to learn more repertoire and perform in smaller venues. These groups are conducted and coached by outstanding musicians and educators from New Jersey and New York.
Together with its summer music camp programs, the NJSYO’s educational programming has contributed to the musical and personal growth of thousands of young people throghout its history. The NJSYO is currently in residence at the Middletown Arts Center.