Kent State Youth Orchestra

Kent State Youth Orchestra in an ensemble for high school string players held at the Glauser School of Music

The Kent State Youth Orchestra (KSYO) is a new initiative of the Kent State University Glauser School of Music designed to serve the vibrant Northeast Ohio string community. The ensemble offers talented pre-college musicians—primarily high school students and advanced middle school students—an enriching opportunity to develop their musical abilities through a high-quality orchestral experience.

Focused specifically on string instruments—violin, viola, cello, and double bass—the KSYO aims to complement existing school music programs or provide a primary ensemble experience for home-schooled students or those without access to large string programs.

What sets us apart is our inclusive philosophy—we welcome all who are passionate about string playing. Auditions are held primarily for placement purposes; everyone is welcome to participate.

As an official Kent State University ensemble, the KSYO strengthens connections between young musicians and the university, providing students early exposure to our outstanding faculty and programs while expanding the region’s greater musical community.

Information Session and Placement Audition

We will hold an Information Session and Placement Audition on Thurs., Sept. 18th, 2025 from 7 to 9 p.m. This session will be at the Band Education Facility located at 650 Loop Road, Kent, OH, 44242. Please make sure to bring your instrument to this session!

Who Can Join?

Membership in the Kent State Youth Orchestra is open to students in grades 8–12. Exceptions may be made for younger students who demonstrate exceptional musical ability.

Students will:

  • Receive expert coaching from KSU artist-teachers
  • Develop technical and artistic performance skills
  • Perform in a high-level orchestral setting with peers from across the region
  • Strengthen valuable life skills including collaboration, discipline, and time management
Instruments Accepted

The Kent State Youth Orchestra accepts the following instruments:

  • Violin
  • Viola
  • Cello
  • Double Bass
Rehearsals and Concerts

When: Thurs., 7–9 p.m.
Where: Band Educational Facility (BEF), Kent State University
Address: 650 Loop Rd, Kent, OH 44242

 

Fall Semester

Concert: Nov. 16, 2025
Location: Ludwig Recital Hall
Rehearsal Dates:

  • Sept. 25
  • Oct. 2
  • Oct. 9
  • Oct. 16
  • Oct. 23
  • Oct. 30
  • Nov. 6
  • Nov. 13
 

Spring Semester

Concert: April 19, 2026
Location: Ludwig Recital Hall
Rehearsal Dates:

  • Feb. 26
  • March 5
  • March 12
  • March 19
  • March 26
  • April 2
  • April 9
  • April 16
Information Session and Auditions

We will hold an Information Session and Placement Audition on Thurs., Sept. 18th, 2025 from 7 to 9 p.m. This session will be at the Band Education Facility located at 650 Loop Road, Kent, OH, 44242. Please make sure to bring your instrument to this session!

Audition Requirements:

  • One major scale and a chromatic scale, demonstrating range and tone
  • A short, prepared solo or etude excerpt, demonstrating musicality and technique

All interested students should register beforehand. 

KSYO Registration Form 

Questions? Contact Isaac Terceros, Director or Orchestras at Kent State University at itercero@kent.edu.

Tuition and Scholarships
  • Tuition is $75 per semester
  • Scholarships may be available based on need or merit
KSYO Faculty
 

Contact Information

Isaac Terceros
Email: itercero@kent.edu

Kent State University – Glauser School of Music
Center for the Performing Arts
1325 Theatre Drive
Kent, OH 44242
Phone: 330-672-2172