Become a Member
Join the Orchestra
"You can't play a symphony alone, it takes an orchestra to play it." — Navjot Singh
Eligibility
Who Can Join?
The Panama City Youth Orchestra is open to young musicians of all skill levels. Whether your child is just beginning or has years of experience, there is a place for them here.
- Open to student musicians — primarily school-age youth through high school
- Primarily a string orchestra — violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
- From beginners to advanced players
Adult musicians: Experienced adults can join as volunteer mentors, playing alongside students to strengthen the ensemble. If you're interested in mentoring, reach out to us.
Tuition & Fees
How Much Does It Cost?
We keep tuition intentionally low so that cost is never a barrier to participation. Our mentors and board are volunteers, which means your dollars go directly toward giving students an exceptional experience.
First Student
Per semester, for the first student in a family.
Each Additional Student (Same Family)
Per semester, for every additional student from the same family.
Scholarship
We never want the fee to be a barrier to participation. A Scholarship Request form is available — please contact us if tuition is a difficulty and we will work something out.
Florida PEP (Personalized Education Program) students can use their PEP funds to cover tuition — no out-of-pocket cost for parents. Contact us for details.
Schedule
When Are Rehearsals?
Rehearsals are held at Gulf Coast State College. The season runs in two semesters — Fall and Spring.
Gulf Coast State College — Amelia Tapper Center, Room 133
5230 West Hwy 98, Panama City, FL 32401
View the full calendar for all upcoming dates.
What to Expect
Commitments & Expectations
We ask all members to commit to the semester so the ensemble can perform at its best. Here's what that looks like:
- Attend weekly rehearsals consistently throughout the semester
- Meet weekly with a private instructor
- Participate in the end of semester concerts
- Practice independently between rehearsals
- Provide their own instrument
Assessments
Assessment Requirements
Assessments are used for placement within the orchestra and are used to evaluate your student's technical skill level.
- A scale and arpeggio.
- A 2–3 minute solo piece of your choosing to showcase your skill as a musician.
- Assessment excerpts for your instrument
All Instruments
Assessment MaterialsAssessments required: Violin, viola, cello, and double bass only.
If you are unable to attend assessments in person, you can submit a video assessment by August 7.
Enrollment
How to Join
We'd love to have your student join us. Fill out the inquiry form and we'll walk you through enrollment, assessments, and getting started.