Greater Rockwall Youth Symphony

All music conservatories provide masterclasses in order to give students access to performing for and learning from renowned professional musicians. GRYS brings in special guest artists throughout the country to provide the best musical training possible. We have had masterclasses and sectionals from members of the Dallas Symphony and the Dallas Opera. In the fall, we will have several guest artists, including Tito Munoz, the music director and conductor of the Phoenix Symphony.

GRYS offers students the opportunity to engage in internships and entrepreneurial skills. Through our program, students will develop real-world professional skills to use throughout their academic and professional career. Students can develop skills in organizational development, nonprofit management, marketing, program development, community outreach, and IT. We offer students assistance with developing their brand- websites, business cards, bios as well as performance and recording opportunities.

Students serve and engage the community through their musical performances. We perform for seniors, veterans, at-risk youth, community events and local nonprofits.

There are many great ways to volunteer and serve our community- but few have the gift to share their love of music. GRYS students provide a service that is much needed in our community - and the kids have fun giving back!

GRYS promotes social responsibility & inclusivity. Our students perform for and learn about our local nonprofit organizations and how they impact the community. GRYS believes in the importance of serving our community through music. We have been invited to perform for the galas of Boys & Girls Club of Northeast TX, Children’s Advocacy Center, Meals on Wheels & the Alzheimer’s Association. We have had over 40 performances for over a dozen nonprofits in Rockwall County since October 2022.

Mentorship is a proven effective modality for learning. We offer side-by-side opportunities throughout rehearsals and performances each concert cycle. Students sit beside local professional musicians nearly every rehearsal which enrich our students and help raise the bar.

We also offer a conductor apprenticeship, allowing students to develop abilities to study musical scores, understand instrumentation and basic music theory as well as develop beginner techniques in conducting.

Student composers have the opportunity to have their works premiered at GRYS performances and work with local composers.

Student composers are able to work with the student musicians and coach them.

GRYS creates performance opportunities with other local arts organizations to give students a richer appreciation of fine arts. We are currently working on collaborations with pianists, singers, thespians and dancers. More details to come!

We firmly believe that everyone deserves access to fine arts. We provide tuition waivers for nearly 40% of our students. We also don’t believe in turning students away. We have an array of ages and skill levels- and we are happy to find a place for you in our GRYS family. Starting in fall 2023, we will be able to provide transportation for those in need.

GRYS recognizes the gap in performance opportunities for homeschoolers and we aim to fill that need. Playing in any ensemble, will promote collaboration, communication and connection to music. Many students enjoy the social aspect as much as the creative outlet. We want to tailor a program to meet your homeschooler’s needs. Contact Amanda Casper for more details.

We offer pianists the opportunity to perform solos and chamber works throughout the year.