The Napa Valley Youth Symphony (NVYS) offers a comprehensive music education program that supports student musicians from beginning to collegiate level. Serving over 100+ students ages 8–18 from 23 schools across the Napa Valley and nearby communities, NVYS provides a structured pathway through ensemble participation, professional coaching, and enrichment activities designed to foster musical and personal growth.

Our programming begins with NOTES, an introductory group coaching program for beginner strings, brass, and woodwind players, focusing on basic technique and ensemble readiness. Students then progress to our Preparatory Strings & Woodwinds Ensembles, which support the development of musical literacy and group performance skills in a nurturing environment. Sinfonia, our entry-level full orchestra, offers an engaging opportunity for advanced beginners and intermediate players to refine their technical and ensemble skills through age-appropriate repertoire and guided collaboration.

The Bridge ensemble helps intermediate students transition to the demands of advanced orchestral performance through focused coaching and challenging repertoire. At the highest level, the Youth Symphony performs collegiate-level works that cultivate advanced musicianship, leadership, and artistic expression. Advanced students also have the opportunity to participate in Chamber Ensembles for strings, brass, and woodwinds, where they explore intricate repertoire in small groups with individualized chamber coaching.

From August through May, ensembles meet weekly for 2–3 hours of rehearsal, supplemented by twice-weekly group coaching sessions. Students benefit from sectional instruction with professional Bay Area musicians, a fall retreat at Camp Cazadero, and specialized summer chamber music camps.

NVYS is committed to access and equity through robust tuition and private lesson scholarships, as well as mentorship programs that foster peer support. These programs work together to create a vibrant, inclusive community that empowers young musicians—regardless of background—to reach their full potential through music.