The Abbotsford Youth Orchestra (“AYO”) is a community-based string orchestra under the auspices of the Abbotsford Community Music School (“ACMS”) who has appointed Dr. Calvin Dyck as the Artistic Director. AYO was created in 2000 to fill a need in the Valley for an auditioned performance group for strings that would provide challenging musical experiences as well as a positive social environment for these aspiring musicians.
Over the past 26 years, the AYO has enjoyed opportunities that range from parades and tours (including a recent international tour to Spain) to recording sessions, concerts, choreography and competitions. Some former members are currently pursuing professional careers in the arts and we are delighted to see the friendships that continue to form among members of the AYO.
Anyone who is interested in being a member of the AYO must be auditioned and should be taking private lessons on their instrument. The AYO has three divisions: Senior, Intermediate & Junior. Students are placed in a division based on their music “level” not their age. The three groups will sometimes practice together and sometimes practice separately and will perform at some events together and some separate events.
Over the past 26 years, the AYO has enjoyed opportunities that range from parades and tours (including a recent international tour to Spain) to recording sessions, concerts, choreography and competitions. Some former members are currently pursuing professional careers in the arts and we are delighted to see the friendships that continue to form among members of the AYO.
Anyone who is interested in being a member of the AYO must be auditioned and should be taking private lessons on their instrument. The AYO has three divisions: Senior, Intermediate & Junior. Students are placed in a division based on their music “level” not their age. The three groups will sometimes practice together and sometimes practice separately and will perform at some events together and some separate events.
- Juniors must be at a minimum Grade 2 Royal Conservatory level.
- Intermediates must be at a minimum Grade 5 Royal Conservatory level.
- Seniors must be at a minimum Grade 7 Royal Conservatory level.
