“SYS - ...a great experience to not only play great music but hear your peers play at such a high level.”—Trombone Player
“I am constantly in awe of the talent and dedication of our musicians in every group. I am grateful that these young artists, students, athletes, volunteers, and friends give of their time and energy to pursue making music together. Their passion is infectious and keeps me coming back for more every week.”—Jon Harris-Clippinger, conductor
“On my first day . . . I’m playing in this big orchestra and thinking, ‘Wow! Everyone here is really good.’ I feel like I’m part of something huge, something that surrounds me in music.”—Cellist
As a conductor, I relish the chance to provide young musicians with the opportunity to expand their musical perspective through the performance of great symphonic works.”—Jon Harris-Clippinger, conductor
“We work hard when we practice together but we have a lot of fun and make new friends. I liked the tree swings at the retreat.”
“Each year brings new excitement as I watch Amadeus members who love to play and to perform in a group with outstanding players from many schools. We would love to have you join us and add to our rich string sound!”—Deborah Ward, conductor
“I enjoy encouraging new string talent and seeing our students grow through the years as they move on to audition for Amadeus, Philharmonia, and Youth Symphony. If you are a student starting out on strings, please join us!”—Deborah Ward, conductor
Auditions are held in January, June, and September. Visit the AUDITIONS page to find out how to enroll.
Salem Youth Symphony provides four levels of orchestral experience geared for youth throughout age twenty-one.
MOZART PLAYERS: A non-audition early level string ensemble conducted by Deborah Ward and Rachael Anderson.
AMADEUS PLAYERS: A mid-level string ensemble conducted by Deborah Ward.
PHILHARMONIA: A full symphony orchestra conducted by Jon Harris-Clippinger and Mac Mayer.
YOUTH SYMPHONY: The advanced full symphony orchestra conducted by Jon Harris-Clippinger and Héctor Agüero.
A PROUD TRADITION SINCE 1954
Salem Youth Symphony fosters the talents of dedicated young musicians by providing them with the opportunity to
Develop a deeper appreciation of orchestral music
Enhance their performance skills
Contribute to the community through their musical expression
SYS represents over 40 public and private schools and a dozen communities in the Salem-Keizer and mid-Willamette Valley area.
Salem Youth Symphony, in support of public and private school music programs, requires students to be enrolled in a musical ensemble offered at their school for their instrument.
Please support music and the development of young talent through a generous donation to Salem Youth Symphony. SYS is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. Your tax deductible contribution will make a difference in a young player’s life.
