Des Moines Symphony

The Des Moines Symphony Youth Orchestras are training orchestras for young musicians to learn ensemble skills such as listening, playing in a group and following a conductor. Students will be placed in the appropriate group by conductors based on auditions.

The Des Moines Symphony Youth Orchestras Program is comprised of four orchestras:

• Youth Sinfonia- beginning string (grades 1-6)
       Conducted by Matt Meyer
• Youth Philharmonic- intermediate strings (grades 7-9)
       Conducted by Michele Senger
• Youth Symphony- advnaced full orchestra with strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion (grades 10-12)
       Conducted by Maestro Joseph Giunta
• Youth Chamber Orchestra- select chamber ensemble consisting of members of the Youth Symphony
       Conducted by Maestro Joesph Giunta 

Participants receive a comprehensive music education as they progress through the sequence of the four orchestras.

New Opportunities:
Coachings with Des Moines Symphony Orchestra musicians
Performance at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines

Ensemble participation builds upon a young musician's sense of responsibility and self–motivation and strengthens listening skills and practice habits. As a member of Des Moines Symphony Youth Orchestras, students learn to be both stronger leaders and reliable members of a collective group.

Each orchestra rehearses on a weekly basis in preparation for a concert, which is the culmination of weeks/months of preparation for students and directors. Each orchestra performs 2–4 concerts per year.

Click here for frequently asked questions about the Des Moines Symphony Youth Orchestras

For more infomation please contact Joshua Barlage, Academy Registrar, at 515.280.3332 or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

Membership is granted by auditions held each fall. Auditions for the 2009-10 season will be held:

Fall Auditions for all Orchestras-NEW!

Auditions will be held at the following locations:

Tue Sep 1, 4-6pm
Temple for Performing Arts

Wed Sep 2, 4-6pm
Valley High School 

To register for an audition call or e-mail Joshua Barlage at 515.280.3332 or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it