About YOSA

“I've grown as a musician and made lifelong friends.
I truly can't imagine my childhood without YOSA.”
-Elaine, Class of 2019

Mission

The mission of Youth Orchestras of San Antonio, the premier orchestral experience for youth citywide, is to enhance education, enrich the community, and transform lives by pursuing excellence in classical music in a stimulating, nurturing, and fun environment that is equally accessible to all youth.

YOSA provides young musicians of all backgrounds the opportunity to play music together so they can learn, grow, and thrive while connecting with the community. YOSA changes kids’ lives through music. We provide transformative music experiences to more than 2,500 young musicians ages 8-20 through YOSA Orchestras, YOSA Summer Symphony Camp, and YOSA School Partnerships. YOSA connects motivated young musicians together and provides a world-class experience that helps youth grow creatively, academically, and socially.

Vision

YOSA envisions a community where all musically-inclined youth in San Antonio have a chance to pursue their interests and maximize their potential. YOSA seeks ways to remove financial and social barriers to high-quality music education and designs its activities around this purpose.

Beliefs and Values

• Classical music is a key component of a vibrant community.

• All youth deserve equal access to participation and excellence in music education, regardless of economic, social, and other barriers.

• The pursuit of musical excellence transforms lives.

• Playing a musical instrument enhances the intellectual and social development of youth.

• Orchestras provide a fun, safe environment for mutual growth and creative expression.