Carol Nies, director
The Vanderbilt Youth Orchestras have been an integral part of the Blair Academy for more than 50 years. Comprising eight orchestras, the program draws outstanding young musicians from throughout Tennessee, Kentucky and Alabama. The Vanderbilt Youth Orchestras are open by audition to students in the third through the 12th grades. The VYO provide an orchestral experience of the highest quality at all levels, in addition to a fun, supportive and challenging learning environment. Members of the VYO have the opportunity to work with professional conductors and coaches from the Blair School of Music faculty and the Nashville Symphony. Students accepted for membership are encouraged to be in good standing in their school's music organizations. For information about becoming a part of VCO, contact Carol Nies.
Fall 2020 Rehearsal Plans (COVID-19)
All Vanderbilt Youth Orchestras will begin rehearsals on Zoom (online) to follow the Vanderbilt University COVID-19 health and safety guidelines. You will receive emailed instructions for all details for this.
We will transition to in-person rehearsals when Vanderbilt safety guidelines for this have been met. Transition plans for the large ensembles include moving from Zoom rehearsals to in-person chamber orchestra-size groups to allow for social distancing guidelines. ALL VYO members will be included! VYO woodwinds, brass, percussionists and harpists, do not worry — you will all be included and will have great repertoire to work on! (Students whose parents would like them to participate in online rather than in-person rehearsals may choose this option.) We will transition to full large ensemble in-person rehearsals when approval for this is given by Vanderbilt.
If Zoom rehearsals are not possible for you because of financial reasons, email Carol Nies and resources will be found to make this possible.