Classes: In addition to ensemble rehearsals, each student participates in a class or sectional of the same level and same instrument. During this class time, students learn the pedagogy of their instrument, as well as fundamentals of music. These classes are designed to further the music education of the students in the program as well as prepare them to complete their next jury advancement.

In the intermediate and upper levels (E through L), students participate in a class called a sectional of similar instruments and levels, for the purpose of increasing students' skills and understanding of the literature being performed in the Youth Orchestra and the Junior Philharmonic, Elementary Orchestra and Preparatory Orchestra

Summer Program: Each summer, the DC Youth Orchestra Program offers summer classes for a six week session. Students have the opportunity to continue their music education during a portion of the summer months, including classes and regular performances. Often students take advantage of this additional music instruction to get a jump start on jury advancement for the fall session.

When details about the upcoming summer session are available you may visit the registration page for more information.

Master Classes: From time to time, the DC Youth Orchestra Program sponsors master classes. Students who perform and are critiqued at these master classes are chosen by the Youth Orchestra and Junior Philharmonic section coaches. Participation for DCYOP students is free of charge. Those wishing to come see the master class are asked for a minium $12 donation at the door.

Outreach: The DC Youth Orchestra Program spends time coordinating music education during and after the school day for young students in a variety of public and charter schools in the area. Through this process, the organization is able to contribute to the fulfillment of its own mission as well as enhance arts education within the DC area schools. These projects have been supported in the past by the DC Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation, by the Cafritz Foundation, and by the generosity of individuals schools and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA/PTSO). If you are interested in starting a similar program in your school, please forward an email to info@dcyop.org.