About the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra

Mission & Core Values

The Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestras’ Mission

To inspire young musicians through engaging and rewarding orchestral music experiences.

What is GNOYO?

The Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestras (GNOYO) has been recognized both locally and nationally for its commitment to music education.  GNOYO provides young musicians the opportunity to participate in a high-quality full orchestra program. Participants significantly improve individual performance and ensemble skills, while developing professional attitudes and discipline, which empower them to take initiative in their schools and community and to pursue individual and team excellence in all life endeavors. GNOYO’s exciting concerts include music ranging from Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture to John Williams’ Jurassic Park.

To encourage the broadest participation possible GNOYO has five orchestras:

    • Sinfonia
    • Northshore Sinfonia
    • Philharmonia
    • Northshore Philharmonia
  • Symphony

Three orchestras rehearse on Saturday afternoons in Uptown New Orleans. Two orchestras serve the Northshore, rehearsing on Thursday afternoons at Mandeville High School. The Sinfonia and Northshore Sinfonia build a firm foundation in ensemble playing for string students with two to five years playing experience. The Philharmonia and Northshore Philharmonia, the intermediate level ensembles, are full symphonic orchestras consisting of strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The Symphony (also a full orchestra), offers advanced musicians the opportunity to learn and perform standard orchestral work.

More than 200 young people aged seven to nineteen currently participate in this growing independent non-profit organization. Attracting participants from as far as 120 miles away, GNOYO is committed to making its program accessible to all area youth, regardless of their families’ financial capabilities.

GNOYO Core Values

  • Playing orchestral music as a joyful and moving experience
  • Demonstrating high artistic values
  • Challenging the individual to reach his or her potential
  • Promoting positive self-esteem
  • Developing friendships
  • Inspiring mutual respect, support, and teamwork
  • Encouraging leadership and being positive role models
  • Promoting diversity through outreach and community involvement
  • Instilling a sense of personal responsibility