GREATER CONNECTICUT YOUTH ORCHESTRAS

The mission of Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras is to provide a wide range of musical experiences that further the musical education of young musicians and to contribute to the cultural environment of the communities we serve. GCTYO is committed to diversity and accessibility and has a robust scholarship program, community outreach in the form of free lessons, and one-on-one teaching by older students to younger students. Through rehearsals and formal performances, young musicians gain valuable experience and an important sense of achievement and self-confidence, while fostering lifelong friendships and a love of music.

- Hold weekly rehearsals including full orchestra and small group instruction and perform at least 3 concerts per season;
- Teach developmentally appropriate music in a challenging but supportive environment;
- Multiple ensembles give students the opportunity to move up into progressively more challenging situations;
- Maintain a culture of inclusivity and acceptance so that students enjoy being in the organization and feel a strong sense of commitment to it.

- GCTYO has the highest quality music educators who bring out the best in students.
- All conductors and coaches are music educators who teach in developmentally appropriate ways to the range of students in the program.
- Regular concerts give students a goal, as well as creating opportunities to learn new music regularly.
- Social activities enhance bonding among students, which leads to more cohesive orchestras.
- Good fiscal management ensures that the organization can take advantage of new opportunities and produce performances that bring prestige and excitement to members and their families.

- 20% growth in membership over last 4 years
- Steady revenue growth over last 4 years with positive net income every year
- Increase in financial assistance to students who could not otherwise participate
- Innovative programming including Carmina Burana in 2019 and Cirque de la Symphonie in 2020. These types of concerts are not normally performed by youth orchestras, attesting to the quality of GCTYO.
- Created 4 new ensembles in last 3 years.
- Launched free after school lessons program.

- Next: Continue building the program, including creating a permanent home for rehearsals and other programs. Expand community outreach programming. Increase contributed income.