Watch our Video: “GCTYO is Awesome”
Don’t take our word for it: Watch this video about GCTYO and hear from students, parents, Board members, teaching artists, and Music Director Christopher Hisey about what makes GCTYO special and the best place for young musicians to find inspiration, develop musical and life skills, and become part of a unique and special community.
Concerts & Events
- Jack Lawrence Fall Concerts: November 23, 2025
- Play All Day @The SoNO Collection: December 6, 2025
- Summer Music Showcase: January 10, 2026
- Concerto Competition: January 31, 2026
- Australia trip – July 2026
- GCTYO Summer Music Festival (camp): July 20-31, 2026
Donate
There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you made a difference in the life of a child. Please reach into your heart and your pocketbook to help all our students reach their full potential.
GCTYO strives to keep membership costs low so that more families can participate. Help GCTYO achieve its mission of equity and access with a donation today. We are currently accepting donations for a Private Lesson Fund to give all our students equal opportunity to thrive and grow musically at GCTYO.
Auditions & Registration
We hope you will give GCTYO a try this summer or next season! New Student Auditions for the 2026-27 season will take place June 10 in Fairfield. Registration for next season and for GCTYO’s summer camp (July 20-31, 2026) will open in January.
Scroll down to watch a video about GCTYO, and check out our Auditions page to learn more about our audition process.
GCTYO has weekly Saturday morning rehearsals in Fairfield.
Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras (GCTYO)
brings young musicians together to achieve the highest standard of music performance in a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment. Our holistic approach to education fosters growth, learning, confidence, and both social and emotional awareness, which prepares students for a full and balanced life.
Our Core Values
- Belonging | Providing an inclusive place where everyone feels accepted
- Community | Building partnerships within the GCTYO family and beyond
- Dedication | Encouraging commitment to each other as we work to achieve a common goal
- Equity | Ensuring fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement
- Integrity | Making ethical, transparent, and well-intentioned decisions