We Are YOSA

Something special happens when a group of musicians perform together. Maybe it’s the encompassing reverb of the concert hall, the dramatic movements of the conductor, or the music itself that creates an overtone of wonder echoing from center stage. Maybe what’s special is that the musicians who take the stage together, and all of those standing behind them, have been brought together by a shared passion for music.

YOSA brings young musicians together for that special experience. Nine ensembles with more than 500 young musicians make up the YOSA Orchestras, but YOSA’s overall reach is far greater. More than 2,500 local participate in YOSA through their school’s music program, YOSA Summer Symphony Camp, and the YOSA Orchestras. YOSA offers young musicians life-changing musical experiences with unmatched enrichment and boundless opportunity. Most importantly, YOSA strives to ensure that music education is equally available to all youth – through need-based tuition assistance, community partnerships, and budget-friendly tuition rates.

YOSA is unmatched in its high standard for artistic excellence, but what makes YOSA something truly special are the people—the dynamic and diverse young musicians and the countless supporters who make it all possible.

YOSA is Vincent Garcia-Hettinger, a two-time finalist of the national Sphinx Young Artist Competition.

YOSA is Cayden Rolfe, whose trombone led him to the World Youth Wind Orchestra Project in Austria last summer.

YOSA is dozens of local young musicians who qualify for TMEA All-State ensembles each year.

YOSA is Allison Balfour, a longtime YOSA parent who gives back through her service on the YOSA Board of Directors and through her family-owned restaurant, Southerleigh.

YOSA is Sara Vicinaiz, a YOSA staff member by day and an oboist with “Sonido Barroco” by night.

YOSA is Mollie and Bartell Zachry, who have given of themselves for many years to ensure that young musicians in San Antonio have access to transformative experiences through music.

YOSA is a family of musicians, parents, teachers, audiences, donors, and advocates.

YOSA is music. YOSA is opportunity. YOSA is community.

#WeAreYOSA.