World Youth Symphony Orchestra
World Youth Symphony Orchestra
Led by world-renowned conductors, WYSO plays advanced repertoire chosen from traditional and contemporary masterpieces, as well as other influential genres, in this challenging and extraordinary orchestral experience.
Students accepted into WYSO play with the world's most talented young musicians. You'll learn from the nation's foremost conductors and concertmasters, play in breathtaking settings, and record your skills in professional recording studios. As members of Interlochen Arts Camp's preeminent music ensemble, WYSO performers develop lifelong friendships and a deep passion for the arts.
WYSO Conductors
The World Youth Symphony Orchestra conductors hail from some of the world’s most prestigious orchestras, ensembles, and conservatories. Under the guidance of Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Cristian Macelaru, the WYSO conductors lead the ensemble in daily rehearsals and provide insights about the historical context and musical interpretation of the repertoire. They also serve as mentors, coaches, and inspirations to our talented students and bring decades of real-world experience to Camp each summer.
Please note the gallery may showcase previous conductors.
Cristian Măcelaru
Orchestre National de France
JoAnn Falletta
Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
Jader Bignamini
Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Erina Yashima
Philadelphia Orchestra
Gemma New
New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
Jung-Ho Pak
Cape Symphony
The Rep
The repertoire for World Youth Symphony Orchestra includes some of the most challenging classical and contemporary pieces performed by young musicians. Each summer, we strive to offer diverse, compelling repertoire for tomorrow's creative changemakers.

Valade Concertmasters
Selected from the ranks of America’s finest orchestras, the Valade Concertmasters serve as mentors and role models for World Youth Symphony Orchestra violinists. They participate in rehearsals and tap into their many decades of orchestral leadership experience to teach our violin players and future concertmasters.
Please note the gallery may showcase previous concertmasters.
Margaret Batjer
Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra
Celeste Golden Boyer
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Martin Chalifour
Los Angeles Philharmonic
Dennis Kim
Pacific Symphony
Timothy Lees
Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
Jeff Thayer
San Diego Symphony