Cross Timbers Youth Orchestra

Founded in 2003, The Cross Timbers Youth Orchestra is a non-profit IRS 501(c)3 organization for committed young musicians in the North Texas area. The CTYO organization has three levels of programmatic offerings: CTYO Elementary Strings, the Studio Program, and CTYO Orchestras, all organized to inclusively nurture and support all levels of musical ability and experience. Students are encouraged to learn, exercise their talents, and have fun through weekly rehearsals, coaching sessions, and performance opportunities. Additionally, CTYO is a partner in the cultural life of the community, offering special workshops and educational programs in all styles and genres of music, and promoting high-quality, professional performances for the North Texas area.

The programs of CTYO are tuition-based, with auditions required for placement and held by appointment. Serving young people from elementary through grade 12 and their families in the cities and towns in Collin and surrounding North Texas counties, CTYO is neither an alternative to nor a substitute for school music programs. CTYO expects that student participants will be enrolled in the appropriate and applicable music and arts programs in their schools. Also, students auditioning for and participating in CTYO ensembles are expected to study with a private teacher on their instrument.