The New York Youth Symphony (NYYS) is a classical music ensemble based in New York City. Founded in 1963, the NYYS has become one of the most prestigious youth orchestras in the United States, providing young musicians with the opportunity to perform at the highest level and to receive professional training from some of the world's leading musicians. The NYYS was founded by the late Dr. Alexander Hilsberg, a renowned conductor and music educator who had previously served as the assistant conductor of the New York Philharmonic. Dr. Hilsberg believed that young musicians needed a platform to showcase their talents and to receive the kind of training that would prepare them for a career in music. He envisioned an orchestra that would be made up of the most talented young musicians in the New York area, and that would perform at the highest level of excellence. The NYYS began with just 60 members, but quickly grew in size and reputation. Today, the orchestra has over 400 members, ranging in age from 12 to 22, and is divided into several ensembles, including a symphony orchestra, a chamber orchestra, a jazz band, and a composition program. The NYYS has had many notable members over the years, including the pianist Emanuel Ax, the violinist Sarah Chang, and the conductor David Robertson. Many of its alumni have gone on to successful careers in music, performing with major orchestras around the world. One of the highlights of the NYYS's history was its performance at the 1964 World's Fair in New York City. The orchestra was invited to perform at the fair's opening ceremony, which was attended by President Lyndon B. Johnson and other dignitaries. The NYYS's performance was widely praised, and helped to establish the orchestra's reputation as one of the finest youth orchestras in the world. Over the years, the NYYS has performed at many other prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. The orchestra has also toured internationally, performing in Europe, Asia, and South America. In addition to its performances, the NYYS is also known for its educational programs. The orchestra's members receive professional training from some of the world's leading musicians, including members of the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. The NYYS also offers a composition program, which provides young composers with the opportunity to have their works performed by the orchestra. The NYYS has received many awards and honors over the years, including the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award, which is the highest honor given to youth arts programs in the United States. The orchestra has also been recognized by the New York State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Grammy Foundation. In conclusion, the New York Youth Symphony is a world-renowned classical music ensemble that has provided young musicians with the opportunity to perform at the highest level and to receive professional training from some of the world's leading musicians. Founded in 1963 by Dr. Alexander Hilsberg, the NYYS has grown in size and reputation over the years, and has become one of the most prestigious youth orchestras in the United States. With its many performances, educational programs, and awards, the NYYS has established itself as a vital part of the classical music community, and a beacon of excellence for young musicians around the world.

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