What programs do you offer?

a.   Orchestra (string, chamber and full orchestras)

b.   Chamber Music

c.    Masterclasses

d.   Mentorship through side-by-side rehearsals and performances with local professional musicians

e.   Internship/Work-study

When are auditions?

We have auditions 3x/ year

a.   May for Summer programs

b.   August for Fall/Winter programs

c.    February for Spring programs

When and where do we rehearse?

Our orchestra rehearses on Thursdays from 7-9pm at Rockwall High School. Our chamber ensembles rehearse based on individual group availability.

What is Chamber Music?

A small ensemble

What is a masterclass?

Not so self-explanatory

Are we “through the school?”

GRYS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity organization. We are a separate entity from ISDs; however, we are very thankful for the local ISDs and especially, RISD for generously donating rehearsal space.

What ages and playing abilities?

Most of our students are 12+ although we do have students as young as 9 years old. Most of our students have been playing approximately 3 years- although that varies. A handful of our students have been playing 10+ years.

GRYS is an inclusive program- we are looking to give all music students opportunities.

How much does tuition cost?

Orchestra & Wind Sinfonietta tuition is $250 per semester

Chamber music tuition is $50 per semester

Summer Intensive tuition is $500

Are there student scholarships?

Yes, nearly 40% of our students are on scholarship. No student will ever be turned away due to economic hardship. Everyone deserves this opportunity.

Do you offer a summer program?

Yes, we are offering 4 summer programs

June 21-June 30

-10 day Summer Intensive for beginners. We will provide string orchestras. Ages 6+

-10 day Summer Intensive for Advanced. We will provide chamber and orchestra programming. Ages 12+

July 17-21

Boys & Girls Club Music Appreciation Camp*

-You must be enrolled in the BGC program in order to enroll

-Students do not need any musical training to participate

-Ages 6-12 and 13-17

-Register through BeGreatNext

July 24-26

Mini Camp

-Join GRYS for a 3-day immersion of blah blah blah

Do you offer programs tailored to homeschoolers?

Yes, programs during the day throughout the week are available- both string orchestra and chamber ensembles

What distinguishes GRYS from other youth orchestras?

-Our community focus and commitment to Inclusivity

-We support the underserved, nonprofits, veterans…

Do I need to live in Rockwall county to participate?

No, we serve students throughout the DFW metroplex.  Students come from 11 ISDs and multiple counties (Rockwall, Kaufman, Colin, Dallas and Tarrant) 1.rockwall 2.forney 3.terell 4. Royse city 5. Rowlett 6. Sunnyvale 7.Garland 8. Mesquite 9. Sachse 10. Heath 11. Fate 

How do I apply?

Click apply and select which program you are applying for.

How do I subscribe to the newsletter?

Subscribe on our website. Add link

Do you offer private lessons?

No- we refer to the Rockwall School of Music.

What if I don’t have transportation?

-We coordinate carpools

-Working on providing transportation in Garland and Mesquite- more details to come

What is your attendance policy?

Students are ALWAYS excused from rehearsal due to school functions and committments.

Due to the nature of everyone’s competing priorities, GRYS is offering FLEXIBLE Attendance- students commit to attending 2 rehearsals/month. We would rather students join us for part of the time than not at all. We understand how busy everyone is!

How am I going to focus on getting into college and youth orchestra?

Joining a youth orchestra distinguishes you from many applicants. Most students have good grades and SAT scores. How many students put “youth orchestra” as an extracurricular activity? You will certainly stand out.

How does the Chamber Music program work?

We can either place you in an ensemble OR you can form your own with your friends.

How many performances do y’all have?

We have unlimited opportunities

-The Harbor

-Playing for seniors, veterans and nonprofit organizations in addition to community events and holiday celebrations.

-We have had 25 performances since September 2022

-Our full orchestra will have 2 performances in May

Are you able to get community service hours?

Playing for seniors, veterans and nonprofit organizations

How does your work-study/Internship program work?

Students will have a 15-minute interview, in which we discuss current skill sets and establish goals to develop professionally…

Students are able to receive a tuition waiver through their work study

How is musical training going to help me? I am not going to be a professional musician.

Transferrable skills….

Are you required to take private lessons?

No, but it is strongly encouraged. If you are receiving a tuition waiver, you are also eligible for student sponsorships that can help pay for private lessons.

Why would I join a youth orchestra?

Developing friendships with folks with similar values and passion for music

Enjoying a creative, artistic outlet which allows you to express…

Have fun, while learning…

I am a parent- how do I get involved?

Volunteering/Parents Association…