Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra

Founded in 1972, the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra (GDYO) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing music education and performance opportunities that foster musical excellence, cultivate learning, encourage creativity, inspire self-motivation, and develop social skills. Since its founding, GDYO has grown from a single orchestra of 35 members to a program now serving over 2,000 young musicians in the North Texas community through nine ensembles and subsidized programming within over 10 under-privileged Dallas Independent School District (DISD) music programs.

GDYO serves young musicians ages 6 to 18, who perform and socialize with a diverse group of highly talented peers from more than 50 communities. The ensemble program holds competitive auditions each spring. In 2018, over 900 musicians auditioned, and 468 young musicians were placed in one of the ensembles (2 full orchestras, 3 string orchestras, a wind ensemble, a flute choir, a jazz orchestra and jazz combo). Between August and May in weekly rehearsals, students receive 60-100 hours of instruction with professional musicians and coaches. The GDYO flagship ensemble presents a formal subscription series of concerts at the Meyerson Symphony Center, and throughout the year ensembles perform four to six concerts at Moody Performance Hall, the Dallas Public Library, and other area venues. Small chamber ensembles average at least four extra performances each season at special events, or free community concerts in collaboration with other non-profits. Last season, over 14,500 audience members attended a GDYO performance.

GDYO has a proud history of matriculating 100% of ensemble participants into college, an especially impressive accomplishment given that GDYO is one of the most affordable youth orchestras in the nation. GDYO believes that no student should be denied access to music education and performance opportunities due to financial need. While GDYO ensembles are tuition-based, tuition is significantly subsidized by approximately 75%, and additional need-based scholarships totaling over $20,000 are distributed each season.

Our Needs

GDYO desires for the high level of artistic caliber it is known for to continue, as well as to have the ability to fully meet the needs of its community. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, what we see clearly is the fundamental and critical positive impact that GDYO has on the young musicians in the community, who are to become our future musicians, patrons, and leaders. We ask that you join us in a commitment to the young musicians of the North Texas community with a gift in support of GDYO programming and initiatives.