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.

**Brand new class!!**

This class is intended for students interested in a group-class only model. This class will meet Wednesdays from 4:30 - 5:15 with Ms. Katherine. You need to have completed one "Intro to Violin" class to be eligible for this class. This is the next step if you aren't sure your child is ready for private lessons yet. 

You will need to aquire your own violin for this class. We highly recommend renting from the Little Rock Violin Shop. Should you have any questions about this, please email the director: kwilliamson@arkansassymphony.org 

NEW! ASO is offering a drum circle for adults, facilitated by ASO percussionist Erick Saoud. The drum circle is an informal, shared gathering where people sit in a circle to play drums and percussion, create spontaneous music together, and build a sense of community. No musical experience is necessary! Everyone is welcome to join in, express themselves, and share a collective rhythm regardless of their musical skill.

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!

Monday, September 14, 2026 5-8pm 

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

Audition time slots will be emailed out the week of September 7-11.

Tuition for the 2026-27 season is $200.  Rehearsals are on Monday evenings.

Come visit with us on Saturday mornings from 9:00-10:00am to introduce your child to the cello! This class is intended for kids ages 6-12 as an accessible way for students to determine if they would like to pursue the cello further with little upfront cost.  Your child will receive a cello and bow to use in class*.  Parents are invited to be in the classroom with their child for the duration of the class, particularly if their child is under the age of 8. The class will meet weekly from October 3rd - November 21st.

*Guardians will be expected to sign a cello loan agreement on day 1.