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“Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel.
If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children’s education." Yo-Yo Ma |
For more than 20 years, the Gaylord Youth Orchestra (GYO) has stood out as Otsego County’s only youth orchestra, filling a vital gap by offering accessible, high-quality arts education at no cost.
GYO is more than an extracurricular, it is a critical component of youth development for Otsego County children and teens. Its focus on string instruments allows participants to improve language, reasoning, motor skills, and coordination. Being part of GYO fosters social competencies, a sense of belonging, and resilience, contributing to mental health and instilling long-term optimism.
GYO’s mission ensures a continuous developmental path from the Summer String Camp to full orchestra participation. This unique trajectory of growth empowers all children, regardless of economic status, to experience the transformative power of music.
GYO’s mission ensures a continuous developmental path from the Summer String Camp to full orchestra participation. This unique trajectory of growth empowers all children, regardless of economic status, to experience the transformative power of music.
Violin Camp
Students without experience often begin in our summer Violin Camp with instruments provided, and then graduate to the Violin Class which runs throughout the school year on Thursday afternoons. Students in the Violin Class are provided an instrument, music, and weekly instruction. Instruments available for use are violins, viola, and one cello.
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GYOWhen students are ready, they must audition for the Gaylord Youth Orchestra. Upon joining, students must have their own instrument and be taking private lessons in addition to the weekly GYO instruction time.
GYO has two formal shows a year, a Christmas and Spring Concert and often is invited for other community events such as the Rotary Luncheon, Gaylord Arts Opening Receptions, Alpenfest, and more. |
"Today, I look back at the youth orchestra as the foundation of numerous skills and mindsets that have guided me to my current level of success. After many years, Dr. Wayne Wyrembelski continues to serve as a guide for me as I continue to live by his many teachings. During the inevitable scheduling conflicts that occur when working with many people, I remind myself, “flexibility is a sign of greatness,” a phrase I learned and heard many times during my time with the Youth Orchestra. I learned the value of working as a team and understanding the bigger picture and the value of working for the whole, even if it went against my own immediate personal gain."
Nelson Gast, Freelance Composer, Recording Engineer, Musician, and GYO Graduate
Nelson Gast, Freelance Composer, Recording Engineer, Musician, and GYO Graduate
Artistic Director, Conductor, and Founder
Wayne Wyrembelski, Ph.D.
Wayne Wyrembelski is a seasoned musician with over four decades as organist and choirmaster at St. Mary's Cathedral since 1975. He's academically accomplished, holding a bachelor's from CMU, a master's from Wayne State, and a Doctorate in Organ Performance from UofM. His studies were under the tutelage of experts like Mason and Glasgow. His accolades include national scholarships, Rackham School fellowships, and an AAGO certificate from the American Guild of Organists.
He has an impressive performance portfolio, including solo appearances with the Grand Rapids Symphony and international recitals. As a continuo harpsichordist, he's performed with renowned ensembles.
Wyrembelski founded the Gaylord Chamber Singers and Cathedral Chorale, leading tours in Europe and North America. He also initiated the Gaylord Chamber Orchestra, serving as its conductor. His dedication to nurturing young talent is evident in his founding and directing the Gaylord Youth Orchestra, where he's the Artistic Director and Conductor, demonstrating his commitment to musical education and excellence.
He has an impressive performance portfolio, including solo appearances with the Grand Rapids Symphony and international recitals. As a continuo harpsichordist, he's performed with renowned ensembles.
Wyrembelski founded the Gaylord Chamber Singers and Cathedral Chorale, leading tours in Europe and North America. He also initiated the Gaylord Chamber Orchestra, serving as its conductor. His dedication to nurturing young talent is evident in his founding and directing the Gaylord Youth Orchestra, where he's the Artistic Director and Conductor, demonstrating his commitment to musical education and excellence.
Contact us today to get involved!
For more information on joining, please contact Wayne directly at [email protected]
