Welcome to Eugene-Springfield Youth Orchestras (ESYO)

Register for String Academy

Get ready to make music! String Academy offers a supportive and non-auditioned introduction to string instruments for young musicians. We welcome students with beginning to intermediate skills on violin, viola, cello, or bass. Through weekly rehearsals, students build fundamental techniques, learn to play with others, and prepare for advancement into our orchestra programs. Every season culminates in two public concerts where our students shine!

String Academy 2 (SA2)
SA2 is the perfect next step for students with at least one year of individual instruction. This group focuses on the fundamentals of ensemble playing, helping students develop essential skills and musical confidence as they prepare for advancement into our orchestra program.

String Academy 1 (SA1)
Our SA1 program brings string instruction directly to students in grades 3-5 at their schools. We focus on foundational techniques for violin, viola, cello, or bass in a fun, group setting.

Current SA1 Registration is Open at: Camas Ridge Elementary, Edgewood Elementary, Edison Elementary, Holt Elementary, Irving Elementary, Willagillespie Elementary, Yujin Gakuen Elementary

Don’t see your school listed? You can still help bring SA1 to your community! Fill out our Interest Form to let us know you’re interested in beginning strings classes at your school. We need a minimum of 12 students to start a program, so please help us spread the word!

Since 1934, ESYO has offered high-quality music education from beginning strings to full symphony orchestras. We work in partnership with school districts to teach String Academy classes, which include instruments and scholarships for low-income families. Students can then move up to each level of orchestra, culminating in the premier ensemble, Eugene-Springfield Youth Symphony. Other ESYO opportunities include Ambassador Musicians and many opportunities to play alongside and work with professional musicians.

ESYO is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and to providing a welcoming, safe community for young musicians of all backgrounds, cultures, identities, and abilities. Students will join other youth musicians from throughout the area to learn, grow, lead and PLAY!

Eugene-Springfield Youth Orchestra’s mission is to provide opportunities for youth to experience, appreciate, and perform orchestral music.


ESYO at the EMs

PK Park

September 3, 2025
5:05 PM