I have been playing the violin since I was five years old, but joining the Northern Colorado Youth Orchestra (NoCoYO) in September 2025 has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my musical journey. I performed in my first concert with the orchestra last week in front of families, teachers, and friends. This showed me how focused practice, teamwork, and commitment come together to create a strong performance and how being part of an ensemble can give you a true sense of belonging.
NoCoYO’s mission is to support young musicians through high expectations, collaboration, and meaningful performance experiences. The program offers three ensemble opportunities designed to meet students at different stages of their musical development. The Apprentice Ensemble is a non-auditioned, strings-only group for early to intermediate students. The Concert Ensemble (which I play with) is an auditioned, strings-only ensemble for advanced middle school and early high school musicians. The Symphony Orchestra is the most advanced ensemble and includes both band and orchestra instruments for older students.
To join the Concert Ensemble, I completed a video audition that included scales and a prepared musical excerpt. Preparing for the audition required consistency, attention to detail, and independent practice, all of which helped me grow as a more confident musician. From the first rehearsal, I felt welcomed and supported by other students who shared the same dedication to playing music.
For students who love music and are interested in playing at a higher level, I strongly encourage you to consider NoCoYO. Beyond developing musical skills, it offers a community where students can challenge themselves, collaborate, and find a place where they truly belong. Check it out: https://www.nocoyo.org/
Thank you, Ms. Young, for coming to see me play.
