Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra

Full Orchestral Experience to Talented Students Grades 6-12

A Reputation of Excellence, Two Decades Strong

Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra

Sunday – SundThe Decatur Youth Symphony Orchestra (DYSO) is an organization that offers a full orchestral experience to talented area students in grades 6-12. The DYSO is sponsored by the Symphony Orchestra Guild of Decatur and Millikin University.

The DYSO program is focused on building musical excellence at all stages of musical development.

 

  • An encouraging, collaborative environment
  • Appropriate musical challenges
  • High-quality musical repertoire
  • Directed by experienced, dynamic music educators
  • Supported by the prestigious Millikin University School of Music and the Millikin/Decatur Symphony Orchestra

UPCOMING CONCERTS for the 2024-2025 SEASON

Winter Concert (Johns Hill Magnet School)

  • Monday, Nov. 25, 2024 at 7 pm

Concerto Competition (Kaeuper Hall)

  • Friday, December 6, 2024

 Spring Concert (Kirkland Fine Arts Center)

  • Sunday, April 27, 2025, 2 pm, $12
    (Tickets at Kirkland Box Office)

Heart of Illinois Youth Symphony Festival
(Eastern IL Univ.)

  • Friday, May 30, 2025 – Sunday June 1, 2025

 

Semi-annual concerts

Concerts occur each semester and afford students an advanced performance opportunity. Instruction in chamber ensembles is also part of the DYSO experience.

Auditions

Auditions are held annually in September. Membership is open to music students in grades 6 through 12 who have had at least one year of experience playing an instrument. Contact Dr. Neal Smith for more information: 

Phone: (217) 424-6358, Email: [email protected]

Rehearsals

Rehearsals take place on Monday evenings at Kirkland Fine Arts Center from 5:15pm to 6:45pm.

Tuition

Tuition is $52 per semester (scholarships available).

DYSO

Ready to get started?

To learn more, visit the DYSO page on Millikin’s website for the most up-to-date information. In addition, contact Dr. Neal Smith, Associate Professor at Millikin University’s School of Music, for more information.

Dr. Neal Smith

Dr. Neal Smith

Associate Professor, School of Music