Teens interested in song writing can explore their creative and musical interests and create something new! Led by hip hop ambassador and community activator Epiphany “Big Piph” Morrow, teens will learn how to execute their creative ideas and create their own music. The week-long workshop culminates in a recording session, so each student can leave with their song.

An audition is required to join the ASO Youth Ensembles (ASOYE).

Academy & Youth orchestra auditions are set for August 2nd

Time: 9am-9pm (specific audition times will be emailed out)

Audition requirements have changed. Please review audition requirements on our website here!

For more information about the ASOYE, visit our ASOYE website or contact Durham Hill.

Attention: Before signing up, please make sure that you are signing up for the correct ensemble. If you have not taken an audition to join or been a part of the ASOYE last year, please reach out to dhill@arkansassymphony.org before signing up!

If you are in need of a scholarship, please sign up for one here and WAIT to enroll until you receive further instructions. 

The Youth Orchestra consists of the most advanced string, woodwind, brass and percussion players from around the state. Entrance is by audition only and for those whose audition demonstrates familiarity with advanced techniques, in order to perform the standard orchestral repertoire. Students may have opportunities to participate in masterclasses with visiting ASO guest artists, and have opportunities to receive coaching and performance opportunities in small chamber ensembles.

Attention: Before signing up, please make sure that you are signing up for the correct ensemble. If you have not taken an audition to join or been a part of the ASOYE last year, please reach out to dhill@arkansassymphony.org before signing up!

If you are in need of a scholarship, please sign up for one here and WAIT to enroll until you receive further instructions. 

The Prelude Orchestra is a strings only ensemble. Students need to have studied their instruments for at least 2 years and demonstrate, in their audition, two sharps and two flats in first position. Experience in third position is desired but not required. Students in this group MUST be able to read music and must be familiar with the concept of, and received an introduction to, shifting.

Attention: Before signing up, please make sure that you are signing up for the correct ensemble. If you have not taken an audition to join or been a part of the ASOYE last year, please reach out to dhill@arkansassymphony.org before signing up!

If you are in need of a scholarship, please sign up for one here and WAIT to enroll until you receive further instructions. 

The Academy Orchestra is the intermediate-level ensemble with a full complement of strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. Entrance is by audition only. String players must demonstrate facility above 1st position and in keys up to 4 sharps and 4 flats. Woodwind and Brass players must be at the level to make All-Region Band and Orchestra.

Founded in 1998 at the University of Arkansas Little Rock, the Community Orchestra is now a part of the Education & Community Outreach arm of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra (ASOCO) provides a once-a-week musical experience in a positive and nurturing environment for amateur musicians. All experience levels are welcome and no auditions are required. The ASOCO meets weekly to rehearse a wide variety of orchestral music and presents concerts twice a year for family, friends and the public.

NOW ACCEPTING AUDITION APPLICATIONS FOR FALL 2026!

Auditions are open to singers with unchanged voices, ages 9-13. It’s OK if you have never been in a choir before – we would love to meet you!

Saturday, August 22, 2026 10am-1pm

ASO Stella Boyle Smith Music Center - 1101 E. 3rd Street, Little Rock

Audition time slots will be emailed out the week of August 17-21.

Tuition for the 2026-27 season is $200.

Group and individual one-on-one string instrument learning. Enrollees will be assigned a group class AND private instructor.

Private lessons once a week (lesson length and teacher assignment determined by the instructor)

*please check with instructor before registering for an extended lesson duration

Teachers for the private lesson might be different from the group lesson