Orchestra Programs

Surrey Youth Orchestra (SYO) offers high-quality orchestral music education through five ensemble levels: Piccolo Strings, Prelude Strings, Intermezzo Strings, Intermediate Orchestra, and Senior Orchestra.

We welcome young musicians from across Metro Vancouver to audition and become part of our vibrant musical community. Students are placed in orchestras based on their musical ability and experience.

Interested in joining SYO? Visit our Auditions page to learn more about the audition process and requirements.

Rehearsal Location & Season

Surrey Christian Secondary School
15353 92 Avenue, Surrey, BC

Rehearsals take place on Saturdays from September through May, according to the SYO season calendar.

In preparation for concerts, additional rehearsals may be scheduled during the two to three weeks leading up to a performance. Programs include full-orchestra rehearsals and focused sectional coaching, as applicable.

Beyond weekly rehearsals, SYO offers music retreat weekends, chamber music workshops in the fall and spring, open houses, and opportunities to work with guest conductors and professional musicians.

Weekly Rehearsal Schedule

ORCHESTRA
REHEARSAL TIME
CONDUCTOR
Piccolo Strings
12:15 PM – 1:00 PM
Andrea Taylor
Prelude Strings
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Andrea Taylor
Intermezzo Strings
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Andrea Taylor
Intermediate Orchestra
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Will Chen
Senior Orchestra
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Joel Stobbe

* Rehearsal times and dates are subject to the SYO season calendar.

Tuition Fees | 2026–2027 Season

We are committed to providing an exceptional orchestral experience while keeping our programs affordable for families. We are pleased to announce that tuition fees will remain unchanged for the 2026–2027 season.

Piccolo Strings $385
Prelude Strings $475
Intermezzo Strings $595
Intermediate Orchestra $740
Senior Orchestra $845

Financial Assistance & Bursaries

The Surrey Symphony Society is committed to making music education accessible to young musicians. Students who have been accepted into an SYO orchestra through the audition process and who demonstrate financial need may apply for a bursary to help with tuition costs.

Chamber Music Programs

In addition to our orchestral programs, SYO offers two Chamber Music Workshops each season, one in the fall and one in the spring.

Chamber music provides young musicians with the opportunity to develop ensemble skills, musical independence, communication, and teamwork in a smaller group setting.

Student chamber groups are formed by Artistic Director Joel Stobbe and receive coaching from experienced professional musicians. Coaches have included members of the Rose Gellert String Quartet, Bernard Blary, Greg Farrugia, Albert Seo, Clara Shandler, Yuyu Liu, and other local string professionals.

Students may also have opportunities to perform in chamber music concerts and community events throughout the season.

Workshop dates and program details will be announced as they become available.

Explore Chamber Music Program →