Bay Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (BPYO)

Bay Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (BPYO) offers youth orchestra, BPYO Chamber Groups for woodwinds and strings, BPYO Ensembles, and a Summer Intensive Program for young musicians aged 8 to 18. Auditions are available for young musicians aged 7 to 20 and are open for all instruments. BPYO is currently accepting new enrollments for the 26/27 season.

Programs

• Bay Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (BPYO) — young musicians aged 7 to 20 · The 2026-27 Season youth orchestra meets on Mondays from 4:30pm to 7:00pm.
• BPYO Chamber Groups (woodwinds and strings) — The 2026-27 Chamber Groups meet on Mondays from 7:00pm to 7:30pm, except for school holidays.
• BPYO Ensembles
• Summer Intensive Program — young musicians aged 8 - 18

About the provider

Judy Lam, BPYO Director Emeritus, directs the youth orchestra and ensembles in the 26/27 Season. Marcella Schantz is Audition Assistant & Conductor Emeritus, and Merna Morse is BPYO Ambassador & Liaison. Bay Philharmonic says it is celebrating 60 years of inspiring audiences through innovative orchestral performance and building on over 60 years of artistic excellence. Its mission statement says the organization serves the diverse communities of the San Francisco East Bay through live orchestral performances and music education, and BPYO provides training, mentorship from professional musicians and conductors, and performance opportunities. BPYO also states that its focus includes underserved and foster children.

Auditions are available for young musicians aged 7 to 20 and open for all instruments. Younger, talented players are also considered with a recommendation from their private instructor and/or school teacher. BPYO is currently accepting new enrollments for the 26/27 season. Merit and need-based scholarships may be available as funds support.

Last updated October 5, 2026.