Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts

There are three primary ensembles within TSYO: the Philharmonic Orchestra, the Symphonic Orchestra, and the Concert Strings. Student musicians in the youth orchestras are actively involved with performers from the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. The student musicians receive free tickets to many of the Toledo Symphony performances and side-by-side performance opportunities. Most importantly, these ensembles perform the highest quality literature from the orchestral repertoire.

Philharmonic Orchestra

TSYO's premier ensemble, the Philharmonic Orchestra, is the perfect place for advanced students looking for the challenge of playing full orchestral works. Students will have the opportunity to work with TSYO Artistic Director, Mr. Wasim Hawary. This top-tier orchestra is comprised mainly of high school students in grades 11 and 12. Younger advanced students are also welcome.

Symphonic Orchestra

This mid-level ensemble is a great opportunity for students to experience playing in a full symphony orchestra, including winds, strings, and percussion. The Symphonic Orchestra includes students in middle school and high school and is led by Dr. Chad Hutchinson.

Concert Strings

Concert Strings is a strings-only training ensemble designed for the beginner to intermediate string student. This ensemble is comprised primarily of students in grades 5-9. Students will perform a variety of repertoire while focusing on instrument fundamentals and the foundation of music-making as a group. Concert Strings students will have the opportunity to work with conductors Ms. Kathleen Schnerer and Mrs. Betsy Cranston.

Toledo Symphony Youth Ensemble

The Toledo Symphony Youth Ensemble is a high school chamber ensemble made of Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestra members. It was founded in Toledo, Ohio in the summer of 2017 by a group of friends as TSYQ (Toledo Symphony Youth Quartet). TSYE is run by students under the mentorship of the Toledo Symphony and parent volunteers. The students make decisions on members, repertoire, coaches, and venues.

Student Leadership and Young Ambassadors

TSYE is committed to reaching out to the youths and adults in the Toledo area in non-traditional ways. The members aim to explore and excel in various types of music and communicate with diverse audiences. In addition to committing to a high level of musicianship, the students are committed to being ambassadors for the TSO. Find them performing and volunteering in the parks, at the malls, and other unexpected places as well as in the concert halls!

Volunteer with the TSYE!

TSYE regularly performs and volunteers at various venues in the Toledo area such as nursing homes and TSO pre-concert events. If you would like to learn more about volunteering, please email us! Contact