DCYOP offers additional training and performance opportunities to exceptional students, especially for young artists of color and students who may need extra support to pursue their musical studies at the highest levels.
These programs allow students to access an extended support network of staff, faculty, and artist-mentors, who are here to help them achieve their full potential.
JazzDC Youth Ensemble
The JazzDC Youth Ensemble is a partnership between DCYOP, DCJazzFest, and Sitar Arts Center. It is open to intermediate and advanced students interested in growing in the foundations of jazz. This program will be directed by Elijah Jamal Balbed and begins in October. Program meets on Wednesdays at 7:00-8:30 pm at Sitar Arts Center. Auditions will be held September 16 and 30, 2026, sign up at page linked below.
Talent Development Program
Intermediate to advanced level students who have demonstrated a serious and enthusiastic commitment to their musical education may audition to participate in our flagship scholarship program. Students accepted into the Talent Development Program receive full tuition scholarship, private lesson support, and opportunities to participate in special recitals and masterclasses with professional musicians.
Chamber Program
Motivated students in Concertino, Sinfonia, Young Artists Orchestra, Premiere Winds, Wind Ensemble, Repertory Orchestra, Youth Philharmonic, or Youth Orchestra are invited to sign up for the Chamber Program to enhance their musical growth and experience.
Small groups meet outside their regular ensembles and each student has a unique part vs. playing as part of a section.
Register when signing up for your primary ensemble. The cost for the chamber program is $100 per year.
Questions can be directed to our Program Manager at tim@dcyop.org
Washington Musical Pathways Initiative
DCYOP is a founding partner of the Washington Musical Pathways Initiative (WMPI), which supports student musicians who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or People of Color and want to pursue advanced study in music. WMPI provides comprehensive musical support to aspiring musicians, including tuition scholarships, mentorship, other unique opportunities, and extra-musical support to talented young musicians in their personal musical journeys.
International Tour
Touring is a transformational experience our students look forward to for years. Every two years, DCYOP leads students on an experience of new culture and foods, to see how orchestras work in another part of the world, and to share time with friends who share a passion for music, away from their daily lives, with some independence to explore, as well. Many alumni remember it as their defining experience with the organization. Learn More at the link below and see some of our previous tours.
Young Virtuosi
A unique opportunity for advanced students, this small chamber orchestra has played at events such as the Shakespeare Theatre Company Gala at Wolf Trap, the Mayor’s State of the District speech, at the Austrian Embassy, and with Swedish pop star, Jens Lekman, at the 9:30 Club. Students will be invited to participate in the Young Virtuosi program by program staff. If you are a current student and are interested, contact your conductor or program staff to discuss the program.
Whole Musician Masterclass
Whole Musician Masterclasses is an occasional series of supplementary workshops designed to enrich our existing students’ musical, physical, mental, and emotional wellness. They also provide pre-professional educational opportunities to help our advanced students develop crucial skills as they apply for summer programs, colleges and conservatories, and jobs. Classes are available to students at all levels for free. Each class is tailored to different ensemble and age levels. Past masterclasses have included the Alexander technique, life coaching for young musicians, and pre-professional workshops in public speaking, resume writing, and preparing audition videos.