Join CYO’s musicians and learn what it’s like to play with students who love music as much as you do!

Contemporary Youth Orchestra (CYO) includes advanced ensembles that focus on the study and performance of orchestral works by living composers.  CYO’s mission is to change young lives through contemporary music and introduce students to careers in the creative arts.  Made up of musicians aged 12 to 18 and representing more than 45 schools in Ohio, CYO fosters students’ technical ability and creative growth in a challenging yet supportive community.

CYO is in residence at Cuyahoga Community College (Metro Campus), and has grown to encompass a 110-piece full orchestra, string ensemble, wind ensemble and percussion ensemble.  Additionally, CYO operates a College Audition Preparatory Program specifically designed to prepare students pursuing entrance to conservatories and music schools to be successful in their application and audition processes.

CYO has premiered works by Pulitzer Prize winning composers, commissioned innovative new works and performed at Cleveland’s most respected music venues.  Since 2004, CYO has presented its signature Rock the Orchestra concerts with illustrious rock musicians such as Melissa Etheridge, Ben Folds, Jason Mraz and Chris Thile.

CYO is dedicated exclusively to the study and performance of contemporary classical music and new orchestral works.  Through unique interactions with living composers and artists, CYO celebrates contemporary music and nurtures Northeast Ohio’s young musicians into confident, creative and critical thinkers.  CYO performs at least 4 public concerts each year, routinely engages student musicians in workshops with guest artists, and collaborates with local arts organizations to create interesting experiences that enhance music education and concert experiences.