The Yale Symphony Orchestra (YSO) is a classical music ensemble based in New Haven, Connecticut. Founded in 1965, the YSO is one of the oldest and most prestigious student-run orchestras in the United States. The ensemble is composed of undergraduate and graduate students from Yale University, as well as members of the New Haven community. The YSO was founded by a group of Yale students who were dissatisfied with the lack of opportunities to perform orchestral music on campus. They decided to form their own orchestra, with the goal of providing a platform for talented musicians to showcase their skills and share their love of classical music with the community. Over the years, the YSO has grown in size and reputation, attracting some of the most talented young musicians from around the world. The ensemble is known for its innovative programming, which often features works by contemporary composers alongside more traditional repertoire. The YSO is led by a team of student conductors, who are selected through a rigorous audition process. These conductors work closely with the ensemble's members to develop a cohesive and dynamic sound, and to bring out the best in each individual musician. One of the highlights of the YSO's history was its performance at Carnegie Hall in 1973. The ensemble was invited to perform as part of the prestigious Young People's Concert series, which was hosted by the legendary conductor Leonard Bernstein. The YSO's performance was a resounding success, and helped to establish the ensemble as one of the premier student orchestras in the country. In addition to its regular concert series, the YSO has also collaborated with a number of renowned soloists and composers over the years. These include the pianist Emanuel Ax, the violinist Joshua Bell, and the composer John Adams, among others. The YSO has also been recognized for its excellence with a number of awards and honors. In 2011, the ensemble was awarded the ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming, which recognizes ensembles that demonstrate a commitment to performing new and innovative works. The YSO has also been featured in numerous recordings and broadcasts, including a performance on NPR's "Performance Today" in 2015. Today, the YSO continues to be a vibrant and dynamic force in the world of classical music. With its commitment to innovation and excellence, the ensemble is sure to inspire and delight audiences for many years to come.

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