The Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra

The Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra offers five strings-only ensembles: SuperStrings, Preparatory, Debut, Sinfonia, and Senior PACO. SuperStrings introduces basic elements of ensemble playing, Preparatory develops the fundamentals from SuperStrings, Debut is for young musicians already experienced in ensemble playing, Sinfonia is for young musicians with excellent technical skills, and Senior PACO is the most experienced ensemble. The standard chamber program places students in quartets or trios within their orchestra and includes chamber music for one orchestra concert with six professional coaching sessions each set.

Programs

• SuperStrings — Youngest PACO students; introduces basic elements of ensemble playing. Two annual concerts feature works for orchestra and chamber ensembles.
• Preparatory — Develops fundamentals introduced in SuperStrings. One winter and one spring concert each season.
• Debut — For young musicians already experienced in ensemble playing. Three annual concerts.
• Sinfonia — For young musicians with excellent technical skills. Three concerts each season.
• Senior PACO — Most experienced ensemble. Four local concerts each season, supplemented with regular international tours.
• PACO Academy
• Standard chamber program — Students are placed in quartets or trios within their orchestra and receive chamber music for one of their orchestra concerts, with 6 professional coaching sessions each set.
• Student Leadership Council — Open to PACO students of all ages · Students can take on leadership roles in the organization.

At a glance

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• General schedule: Weekly rehearsals; several performance opportunities during the season; community events in over 20 events per season; the PACO Academy is yearlong; the standard chamber program is each concert set.

About the provider

Scott Krijnen is the Music Director, Eugene Sor is the PACO Chamber Music Director, and Natasha Makhijani directs SuperStrings. PACO says it teaches young string players to play well with others, to forge a musical community, and to make the world a better place. Senior PACO members coach younger ensembles throughout the year, students work with each other across orchestra levels, and student leadership roles include community ambassadors and social media liaisons. PACO is an award-winning youth orchestra, and its performances receive outstanding critical acclaim.

PACO emphasizes chamber music, cooperation, teamwork, mutual respect, creativity, collaboration, and minimizes internal competition. Student leadership council is open to PACO students of all ages.

Last updated August 20, 2026.