Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras (GCTYO)
brings young musicians together to achieve the highest standard of music performance in a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment. Our holistic approach to education fosters growth, learning, confidence, and both social and emotional awareness, which prepares students for a full and balanced life.
Our Core Values
- Diversity – Reflecting the communities we serve
- Community – Providing an accepting place for kids to be themselves
- Dedication – Encouraging commitment to each other as we work to achieve a common goal
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Inspiration – Empowering our young people to soar to new heights
Watch our Video: “GCTYO is Awesome”
Don’t take our word for it: Watch this video about GCTYO and hear from students, parents, Board members, teaching artists, and Music Director Christopher Hisey about what makes GCTYO special and the best place for young musicians to find inspiration, develop musical and life skills, and become part of a unique and special community.
Events
In Nov. 2023, GCTYO performed with the Grammy Award winning Villalobos Brothers, whose original compositions and arrangements fuse and celebrate the richness of Mexican folk with jazz and classical music. The next concert will feature world-renowned violist Nune Melik performing Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto with Principal Orchestra, as well as performances by GCTYO’s 13 other ensembles! Mark your calendar for March 3, 2024 at the beautiful and historic Klein Auditorium in Bridgeport, CT.
Donate
GCTYO strives to keep membership costs low so that more families can participate. Help GCTYO achieve its mission of equity and access with a donation today. We are currently accepting donations for a Private Lesson Fund to give all our students equal opportunity to thrive and grow musically at GCTYO. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you made a difference in the life of a child. Please reach into your heart and your pocketbook to help all our students reach their full potential.
Auditions & Registration
Be a part of GCTYO! New Student Auditions for the 2024-25 season will take place in June and August in Fairfield. Open Rehearsals to learn more about GCTYO will be May 4, 2024. Email your interest to attend and we will send information in the spring. Scroll down to watch a video about GCTYO, and check out our Auditions page to learn more about our audition process.
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