Excellence is our attitude, not only an outcome.

Excellence in music education is at the core of all SYO activities. The generous gifts to this fund enable us to provide access to world class conductors, professional performance opportunities, renowned Australian and International musicians as well as supporting our future orchestral leaders through Principal Chair Scholarships. 

The Excellence Fund is critical to the succcess of all young orchestral musicians. 

A gift of $25,000 covers the venue costs for a Sydney Youth Orchestra Concert 

A gift of $7,500 covers the cost of a masterclass or project with visiting international artists 

A gift of $4,500 covers the cost of a Principal Chair Scholarship for an outstnading young musician dedicated to undertaking a career in the performing arts.

There are countless SYO alumni playing professionally in all the major Australian orchestras and across the globe. Every gift over $2 is a tax deductable and will support young musicians.

"I remember my time in SYO with great fondness and many fantastic memories. I learnt so much from playing each week alongside many exceptional young musicians and from fabulous conductors. Quality ensemble experience is the only way to become a good ensemble player, and SYO is at the coalface, providing it week-in, week-out to hundreds of young people. I felt at the time like I was a part of a big orchestral family, and am still friends with many of those colleagues all these years later. I am so grateful for the opportunities which being in SYO programs offered me"

Kate Lawson, flute, SYO alumnus. Principal Flute, Hong Kong Sinfonietta

To express our thanks, all donors will be recognised as SYO Excellence Fund Champions for 12 months online and in our concert programs. If you would like your gift recognised in a specific way or under a different name to the donor please include in the notes section.