Hernando County Youth Orchestra (HYO) offers music and/or instrument lessons. Instruments can be provided as well as violin and cello lessons. Many instruments are available for loan during school breaks as well as during the school year.
HYO Inc. is a non-profit Florida Corporation, formed in the summer of 2007. The Orchestra provides a place for young people ages 5-21 to hone their musical skills, gain proficiency in their instrument of choice, and give back to the community through public concert performances.
We have a small selection of instruments we loan to children who cannot afford to buy their own instrument. We also offer low-cost lessons for children needing to build their skills before entering the Orchestra.
Membership is open to anyone under the age of 21, although we do require some level of proficiency on their chosen instrument. The Orchestra does not require an audition to participate in the main orchestra. String players desiring more advanced work have the opportunity to play in a string quartet which does require an audition.
Since its foundation, the HYO has performed dozens of free concerts, including two for the city of Brooksville, Christmas concerts at the Hernando County’s Band Shell, four for the Hernando Fine Art Council including three for “Art in the Park.” We have performed at the Blueberry Festival multiple times, and have given concerts at several churches and gated communities in the area as well as the YMCA’s “Breakfast with Santa.” We have appeared on television and in the Tampa Bay Times multiple times.
The orchestra is funded by grants, community organizations, and the generosity of individual sponsors.
Rehearsals are Sundays from 3:30 – 5 p.m. at The Heather Community Center, located at 9100 Nakoma Way in Weeki Wachee.
Visit www.HernandoYouthOrchestra.org to sign up!
