The Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music is pleased to launch the Young Orchestra Academy (YOA) starting with its first enrolment in August 2026.

Developed in collaboration with the Singapore Youth Philharmonic Orchestra (SYPO), YOA is a new orchestral training platform designed to nurture young musicians through structured ensemble learning, collaborative music-making and orchestral performance experiences.

Bringing together string, wind, brass and percussion students, the Young Orchestra Academy offers a progressive pathway from foundational ensemble skills to more advanced orchestral training within a conservatory-inspired environment. Through weekly musicianship classes, sectional coaching, full orchestra rehearsals and concert performances, students develop not only technical and musical excellence, but also discipline, listening, teamwork and artistic maturity.

More than an orchestra programme, the Young Orchestra Academy seeks to guide young musicians from their first orchestral experiences towards broader artistic growth, future opportunities and a deeper connection to collaborative music-making.

Eligibility to Apply

Applicants to the Young Orchestra Academy are expected to demonstrate suitable playing ability, ensemble potential and a strong commitment to collaborative music-making. The programme is generally open to musicians aged approximately 13–21, although younger students with exceptional readiness may also be considered.

Rather than relying solely on examination grades, admissions place greater emphasis on each student’s current playing standard, music-reading ability, rhythmic security, rehearsal adaptability and willingness to grow through sustained orchestral training.

For string students (violin, viola, cello, double bass and harp), enrolment in the YOA is only possible if you join the Singapore Youth Philharmonic Orchestra as member. Please enquire with SYPO (enquiry@sypo.sg) for audition details.

For winds, brass and percussion students, the application process consists of three stages. First, applicants submit an online application form which should include a link to short performance videos featuring two self-selected work of approximately 2–5 minutes. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited for an in-person assessment to evaluate ensemble response, sight-reading, rhythm and collaborative adaptability.

Applicants are also required to provide basic information including their age, instrument, current teacher, musical background and parent contact details as part of the application process. Please enquire with YST Young Orchestra Academy (ystprojects@nus.edu.sg) for further information.

Only students residing in Singapore may apply.