Our Programs for
Intermediate Musicians
Where students find their community and music becomes a lifelong passion.
DCYOP’s Intermediate program welcomes students ages 5–18 from across the DC metro area who have some experience on their instrument and are ready for more. Through a placement audition process, students are selected for one of intermediate ensembles — from introductory groups to intermediate orchestras — so every musician is challenged at the right level.
Alongside technique and musicianship, students build teamwork, leadership, and confidence within a community of peers and teaching artists invested in their success.
WHO IT'S FOR
Our Intermediate program is for students ages 5–18 from across the Washington metropolitan area who have some experience on their instrument and are ready to take their playing to the next level.
Students audition for placement in one of six ensembles — from introductory string and winds groups to intermediate orchestras — ensuring every student is challenged at the right level. Ensembles meet on Saturdays at Takoma Elementary School throughout the school year, with chamber music opportunities available during the year and summer.
Intermediate students are accepted each semester through an audition process. Please see here for more information on how to audition.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Our intermediate programs provide opportunities for musical growth, personal growth, and the kind of confidence that comes from a community of friends and teachers who want you to succeed.
Intermediate students are beginning their first ensembles and grow to a stage where they’re ready for more: more challenge, more ensemble experience, more motivation, and more community. DCYOP is not just a place where students are doing music alone, but rather, they are part of something bigger. Our teaching artists work with students on technique, skill, artistry, teamwork, leadership, and expression, because what students learn here extends far beyond music.
YOU BELONG HERE
DCYOP offers these students a consistent ensemble community where they feel seen, challenged appropriately, and surrounded by peers pursuing their musical goals.
From first ensembles to advanced, these students are expanding their skill, honing their talent, growing in confidence, and working together to create music. DCYOP supports students in these formative years in pursuing their musical dreams.
INTERMEDIATE STUDENT HANDBOOK
Intermediate Ensembles
Concertino Orchestra
Early-intermediate string ensemble.
Rehearsal time: 1:15-3:30pm
Sinfonia Orchestra
Continuing early-intermediate string ensemble.
Rehearsal time: 1:00-3:30pm
Wind Ensemble
Intermediate ensemble for woodwinds, brass and percussion.
Rehearsal time: 9:00-11:45am
Young Artists Orchestra
Intermediate string orchestra.
Rehearsal time: 9:00-11:45am
Program Information
Please refer to the student handbook for complete information about the Intermediate program at DCYOP.
Important Dates
- April 25, 2026: Registration for 2026-2027 Program Opens
- April 25 - July 25: Early Bird Registration Discount of 5% available
- September 10, 2026: Registration for 2026-2027 Program Closes
- September 12, 2026: Season Kickoff and Orientation at Takoma Elementary School
- September 19, 2026: First Day of Classes/Rehearsals at Takoma Elementary School
Age Requirements
We often get the question of “what is the right age to start a particular instrument?” DCYOP has developed age parameters to help guide parents in determining what is the best age to start an instrument. View minimum age requirements below.
Minimum Age Requirements
Violin
4.5
Viola
4.5
Cello
6
Bass
7
Flute
8
Clarinet
8
Oboe
8
Bassoon
8
Saxophone
8
Trumpet
8
Trombone
8
French Horn
8
Tuba
8
Percussion
8
Harp
7
Student Handbook
For all of the details on our Intermediate program policies, timeline, and more, please refer to our student handbook.
Tuition & Financial Assistance
Tuition covers lessons/sectionals, rehearsals, concerts, evaluations and master classes. While the average cost per student is $3,000 per year, DCYOP subsidizes tuition for all students to $1,200 to ensure its programs remain affordable and accessible. We offer additional financial assistance on a sliding scale and have scholarship opportunities for intermediate and advanced students. Learn more.
Auditions
We will be holding Auditions for Intermediate students who are new to DCYOP for Intermediate or Advanced Fall Programs. In-person auditions will be held on August 15 and August 22, 2026 at Takoma Elementary School. Sign up for an audition time here. If you prefer to submit a video audition, more information is available here.
Students interested in participating in DCYOP should prepare the following:
- Any piece of music that you are currently practicing either at school or with your teacher
- Two scales of your choice
Additional Opportunities and Scholarships at DCYOP
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