Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is delighted to have received $150,000 over three years from the Northern Territory Government to support the future development of the Darwin Youth Orchestra. 

DSO is now working with the Centre for Youth and Community Music (CYCM) and will engage with other music education partners to develop the next phase of the DYO, with DSO providing artistic leadership while transition and administrative arrangements are developed with CYCM. 

DSO’s priority is to build a sustainable, high-quality youth orchestra that complements existing music education opportunities and provides young Territorians with a clear orchestral pathway. 

Planning is now underway, including the artistic model, staffing, rehearsal and performance structure, enrolments and auditions. Further information about the 2027 program, including enrolment, audition and commencement dates, will be released in early 2027 once these arrangements have been finalised. 

Darwin Symphony Orchestra General Manager Paul Christ said: 

“The DYO will build on the excellent music education already happening across Darwin and create clearer pathways into future orchestral opportunities, including with the Darwin Symphony Orchestra. It will give young musicians opportunities to develop their ensemble skills, broaden their orchestral experience and see a clear next step in their musical development here in the Territory.”