World class musical education for any child in the DC area.
DCYOP offers world-class group lessons and ensemble training on all orchestral instruments for students ages 4 ½ to 18. Our program is for youth new to music to those preparing for dreams beyond youth orchestra.
Each year, more than 700 students learn and grow in group classes, ensemble rehearsals, and performances, and through our afterschool program, DCYOPrelude.
Our Programs
We are the leading and only preK-12 program in the DC area making high quality ensemble music education available to any student, regardless of background, status, or ability.
We offer forty beginner programs, ten ensembles, five after school programs, and additional opportunities designed to meet students at every stage of their musical journey.
Beginner
Lessons/Ensembles
From instrument exploration to learning to read music, our beginner programs are geared to those brand new to music or with one year or less of experience.
Students will experience the wonder of music exploration and the foundations of instruments, music, and orchestra in a group setting in a full year group program. Our beginner ensembles give students an intro to teamwork and growth as part of an ensemble.
Intermediate Ensembles
Our intermediate programs provide opportunities for musical and personal growth for students who have mastered the basics of music and found their instrument.
Students experience their first ensembles and grow as part of a community of student musicians.
Students grow through group instruction in their ensemble.
Advanced
Ensembles
World-class instruction, serious repertoire, and real world performance opportunities are made possible in our advanced orchestras for those who’ve mastered their instrument and are ready for more challenge.
Students achieve growth as musicians and pursue growth together in weekly orchestra rehearsals and advanced performances.
DCYOPrelude Programs
DCYOPrelude is our partnership with DC Public Schools to provide free afterschool musical instruction to students in grades 2 to 8 at partner schools.
Students participate in curriculum-led ensemble instruction 3 days a week and conclude with a concert each Spring.
Talent Development Program
The Talent Development Program (TDP) is a two-year scholarship program supporting advanced young musicians through intensive training, private instruction, and additional performance opportunities.
It is available to intermediate and advanced orchestra students and culminates in a solo recital each year. Enrollment is open each summer for scholars starting the following fall.
Other Opportunities
DCYOP offers several other additional programs and scholarship opportunities for students over the program year.
Our commitment is to present opportunity for continuous learning and support to students seeking further growth.
Check out our additional opportunities below for musicians at all levels.
Explore Programs
Audition (Int + Adv Only)
Register
Placement
Tuition and Financial Assistance
Tuition covers lessons/sectionals, rehearsals, concerts, evaluations and master classes.
While the average cost for programming is $3,000 per student, DCYOP subsidizes tuition for all students to make its programs affordable and accessible. We offer additional financial assistance to all students on a sliding scale and a scholarship experiences for select intermediate and advanced students.
Tuition
Level A / Continuing Level A
SY 2026-27 Full Year Cost
Debut Orchestra / Premiere Winds / Concertino / Sinfonia
SY 2026-27 Full Year Cost
Wind Ensemble / Young Artists Orchestra
SY 2026-27 Full Year Cost
Repertory Orchestra/Youth Philharmonic
SY 2026-27 Full Year Cost
Youth Orchestra
SY 2026-27 Full Year Cost
School Partnerships
Through our DCYOPrelude program, we partner with area schools to support in- and out-of-school orchestra programs available through DC’s Office of Out of School Time Grants and Youth Outcomes. Learn more about DCYOPrelude here.
International Tour
DCYOP hosts an international tour every other year for advanced students to participate in advanced orchestral performances in another country. To date, DCYOP has toured with students in 14 countries.
Touring is a transformational experience our students look forward to. Students experience a new culture and foods, see how orchestras work in another part of the world, perform alongside international musicians, spend time with friends who share a passion for music and enjoy some independence to explore, as well. Many alumni remember it as their defining experience with the organization.
Testimonials
FAQ
When and where are rehearsals?
What time will my child’s ensemble meet?
Do we need to live in D.C. in order to participate?
What are your registration policies?
You may also reference the Student Handbooks in each program section: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Is it too late to join?
How do I choose an instrument?
DCYOP offers group lessons on the following instruments:
- String instruments (violin, viola, cello, bass)
- Woodwind instruments (flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, recorder)
- Brass instruments (trumpet, trombone, French horn, tuba)
- Percussion instruments (percussion, harp)
If you or your child is unsure what instrument to play, DCYOP hosts periodic musical instrument petting zoos. Our next Community Day and Instrument Petting Zoo will be held on April 24, 2027. See our Calendar of Events for more details.
Where can I rent an instrument?
For instrument rentals, DCYOP recommends the following stores and partners:
Potter Violins
Takoma Park, MD
Strings
Chuck Levins Music Center
Wheaton, MD
Percussion, woodwinds and brass
Music on the Hill
Capitol Hill, DC
All instruments
Music and Arts
Multiple locations in DC, MD and VA
All instruments
Gaile’s Violin Shop
College Park, MD
Strings
Brobst Violin Shop
Alexandria, VA
Strings
Foxes Music Company
Falls Church, VA
All instruments