Welcome

to

Katy Youth Symphony

Empowering Young Musicians in Katy & West Houston

Katy has been recognized as one of the fastest growing communities in the nation and as a hub for music education. The Katy Youth Symphony (KatyYS), is a natural outgrowth of this vibrant and growing community. The Katy Youth Symphony is committed to bring our children together to learn, grow, play, and serve close to home where friends and family can support and enjoy their performances and grow in civic pride and music appreciation.

Students in Elementary, Middle, and High School, in the West Houston area whether from public, private, or home based school environments are welcome to register. A minimum of 2-years experience is recommended on your string instrument to join upper level groups. Students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons and participate in their public school orchestra for a minimum of 2 semesters during the current school year if an orchestra is available in their school district.

The Orchestras

At Katy Youth Symphony, we offer three exciting orchestra levels to fit the needs of young musicians at different stages of their musical journey. Our Prelude Orchestra is Katy Youth Symphony’s entry-level ensemble, designed for young string players who are new to orchestra or just beginning their ensemble journey. Our Philharmonic Orchestra is perfect for late beginners to intermediate players, helping them build their skills and confidence through fun and engaging ensemble experiences. For more advanced musicians, the Chamber Orchestra provides a challenging environment to refine technique and perform more complex repertoire.

In addition, our Ambassadors of Katy program selects top musicians from both orchestras to represent Katy Youth Symphony at special community performances and outreach events. Ambassadors serve as leaders, showcasing their talent and inspiring others through their dedication to music and service to the community.

Co-directed by:
Matt Tavilson & Dr. Alice Kim

Chamber Orchestra

In Chamber Orchestra, students dive deep into challenging, dynamic repertoire that stretches their abilities and sharpens their ensemble playing. With a focus on teamwork, precision, and artistic expression, this ensemble provides the perfect opportunity for musicians to master intricate harmonies, learn advanced musical techniques, and truly bring the music to life.

Rehearsals
Mondays, 6:30-8pm
Katy, TX 77493

Directed by Zach Miller

Philharmonic Orchestra

In Philharmonic Orchestra, Students explore a variety of fun and exciting pieces that are just the right mix of challenging and achievable. This is where they’ll strengthen their understanding of music fundamentals—like rhythm, dynamics, and harmony—while also developing their ensemble skills, learning to listen, and playing as part of a team.

Rehearsals

Mondays, 6:30-8pm

Katy, TX 77493

Directed by Dr. Alice Kim

Prelude Orchestra Ensemble Program

Prelude Orchestra is Katy Youth Symphony’s entry-level ensemble, designed for young string players who are new to orchestra or just beginning their ensemble journey. Students will learn how to follow a conductor, play in sections, and develop the foundational skills needed for successful orchestral performance—all in a supportive and engaging environment.

Prelude Orchestra helps build confidence, musical awareness, and readiness for advancement to our Philharmonic and Chamber levels.

Rehearsals

Mondays

Katy, TX 77493

TBA

Ambassadors of KatyYS Ensemble Program

The Ambassadors of Katy Youth Symphony (KatyYS) Ensemble is an exciting opportunity for our most dedicated and talented musicians from the Philharmonic and Chamber Orchestras & Band. This special group will represent KatyYS at various events and performances throughout the Houston area, and sometimes even beyond!

Rehearsals

TBA

Katy, TX 77493

The Bands

At Katy Youth Symphony, we’re excited to announce that we've expanded our program to include band alongside our thriving orchestra ensembles—serving even more young musicians in the Katy and West Houston area!

We now offer a NEW! Katy Youth Symphony Band Program – Open to woodwind, brass, and percussion students with at least one year of experience, our band program provides expert instruction, performance opportunities, and the chance to grow musically in a fun, collaborative setting.

In addition, our Ambassadors of Katy program selects top musicians from all programs to represent Katy Youth Symphony at special community performances and outreach events. Ambassadors serve as leaders, showcasing their talent and inspiring others through their dedication to music and service to the community.

Directed by TBA

Ensemble Band

In the Ensemble Band, students explore dynamic and challenging repertoire that pushes them to the next level of musical excellence. With a strong focus on teamwork, precision, and expressive playing, this group is designed for intermediate woodwind, brass, and percussion students who are ready to grow as ensemble musicians.

Through engaging rehearsals and advanced musical instruction, students will strengthen their technique, master more complex rhythms and harmonies, and experience the excitement of bringing music to life as a unified band.

*Students will also have the opportunity to participate in Full Orchestra (strings & winds)

Rehearsals
Mondays, 6:30-8pm
Katy, TX 77493

Directed by TBA

Concert Band

In Concert Band, students with at least one year of experience dive into a variety of fun and exciting pieces that strike the perfect balance between challenge and achievability. This ensemble is the ideal place for young musicians to build confidence and grow their musical skills in a supportive setting.

With a focus on core fundamentals like rhythm, dynamics, tone, and harmony, students also develop essential ensemble skills—learning to listen, blend, and perform as part of a cohesive musical team.

Rehearsals

Mondays, 6:30-8pm

Katy, TX 77493