About Us

The Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra was established in 1978 as an organization dedicated to providing quality orchestral music opportunities for young musicians in and around Frederick County. The organization continues to strive to provide our students with a well-rounded approach to ensemble performance. Not only do our members have the opportunity to meet fellow young musicians and gain performance experience, but also to improve their skills as musicians, learn goal getting, build a sense of cooperation, develop presentation skills, and experience the rewards of hard work.

FRYO provides a complementary musical curriculum outside of the regular school venue that stresses the educational component as well as the performance aspect, and enhances the students' understanding of music and music theory. Music is carefully selected to stimulate students’ interest and enhance their performing ability. Classical pieces, seasonal music, and scores from movies and Broadway musicals are all part of the repertoire. Participation in FRYO includes the regular rehearsal schedule and multiple concert opportunities during the year and provides the opportunity for students to participate in Master Classes, to play with guest soloists, and to perform in small groups taught by professional coaches. FRYO also hosts a yearly concerto competition for members of the Philharmonic, with the winners of the competition having the opportunity to perform as soloist with the Philharmonic at the annual FRYO concerto concert.

For the 2008-2009 season, FRYO will provide two orchestra levels, a wind ensemble, and chamber music opportunities for student members. The Symphonia, under the direction of Mr. Thomas Mitchell, is composed of string instruments; the Philharmonic, under the direction of Mr. Elijah Wirth, has full instrumentation; and our Wind Ensemble, under the direction of our newest staff member, Mr. Nicholas Marini, is comprised of mixed brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments.

We rehearse on Monday evenings at the Frederick Church of the Brethren at the corner of 2nd Street and Fairview Avenue, across from the Schifferstadt Museum. The Symphonia rehearses from 4:30 to 6:00 PM, the Wind Ensemble from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, and the Philharmonic from 6:45 until 9:00 PM.

Please see our Membership Page for more information about joining our orchestras.

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For information, call (301) 695-1187.

FRYO
P.O. Box 3197
Frederick, Maryland 21705

The Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra is a member of American Symphony Orchestra League