About the Shoalhaven Youth Orchestra

“I was part of the SYO for six years (2006-2012). I started off in the Preparatory Strings (now Junior Strings) and it was both a fantastic and supportive place to be as a beginner musician. Orchestra was something I looked forward to every week. I would recommend it to any young local musician as a great place to socialise and learn ensemble and instrumental skills. To this day I play alongside musicians I met in the SYO, it has opened me up to experiences past my SYO days.”

Eryn Deys, SYO alumni, music education graduate, school teacher, Nowra

“Our six year old has loved the fun of Tuning In! classes since she was two. The playful and creative approach of the teachers makes learning how to read, play and compose music easy and exciting for kids. Experiencing so many different instruments and performing as a group on stage each year has inspired our child and created a passion for all things musical.”

Micha James, Tuning In! parent, Nowra

“It’s really great for kids to find what their favourite instrument is, by trying them out. I learnt that I much prefer the clarinet rather than the violin, which I had been learning. It was funny seeing the other kids get really excited over instruments that I didn’t much care for. We were so different!”

Lizzy Stiles, former JUMP student, 9 years old

“Over the past 5 yrs our family has enjoyed Tuning In!, Stringlets, JuMP and Choir. Our daughter has transitioned to private music lessons now, with a firm foundation in music reading, rhythm and playing in an ensemble. It’s great to see the teachers create a welcoming, nurturing, joyful atmosphere for children of differing abilities.”

Jannelle & Martin Stiles, Tuning In!, JUMP, Stringlets, TI! Choir parents

“I’ve been part of the SYO for 10 years, beginning in the Shoalhaven Junior Strings in 2008. It was a fantastic opportunity for me to develop as a young musician gaining practical experience in playing with and performing in an ensemble. I made many friends who shared my interests in music and we were able to grow together through the SYO program. The Shoalhaven Youth Orchestra is an excellent opportunity for young musicians who wish to develop their knowledge and love for playing an instrument. I have continued to meet people and gain new experiences through playing with the SYO and opened up many pathways for my future.”

Elouera Marshall, Concert Master, Shoalhaven Youth Orchestra, Nowra

“When I play the cello it helps me express my feelings. Learning the cello was not easy at first, but I soon came to enjoy it and think of no other instrument! SJS and my teachers guided me to play with others to make music.”

Albert Marr, Shoalhaven Junior Strings Cellist, Nowra

“The violin is an extraordinary instrument, it does take time to learn and when you learn how to play the Violin it sounds amazing. I enjoy practicing with everyone. I am not that fond of going to concerts, I get afraid although by the end I feel amazing. The teachers are very good, and can be funny! I love it.”

Hazel Marr, Violin, Shoalhaven Junior Strings

“I had been learning piano for 6 years when I started learning viola as a second instrument in 2017, encouraged by my teacher at the time. The scholarship has enabled me to continue taking lessons to improve my playing and to also join SYO. Membership of the SYO has been excellent for my development as a musician. I have gained experience in playing in an ensemble, which is not easy to get as a pianist. I’ve also had a lot of fun rehearsing, performing and also learning from experienced musicians including our conductor and the Haydn Ensemble.”

Luke Bowen, SYO Second Instrument Scholarship recipient, Principal Viola