For over 50 years, SYSO has brought meaningful, quality musical experiences to its members.  We welcome students at any level - from absolute beginner to advanced - to improve their skills and hone their musicianship through participation in ensembles designed to let them learn, rehearse, and perform with their peers.  
 

There are three major concerts every season, plus other performance and educational opportunities throughout the year, including a pre-concert and intermission performance with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra. 

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We have four ensembles:

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Enduring Strings

Enduring Strings is a before-school music education program for elementary school students (grades K-5) hosted by Crete United Methodist Church.  In addition to ensemble rehearsals and performance opportunities, this program also offers personalized group and individual lessons. 

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Incredible Opportunity Program

The Incredible Opportunity Program (IOP) provides beginning string group lessons (violin, viola, or cello) for students age 8-13.  IOP classes feature 1-hour group class instruction, enrichment and performance opportunities. Classes run on Saturdays in Palos Park and Sundays in Richton Park during our regular season.

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Suburban Youth Symphony Junior Orchestra

The Suburban Junior Youth Symphony Orchestra (SYSJO) aims to prepare students for the Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra.  Students who are accepted into SYSJO have successfully completed a comprehensive audition.  Children ages 8-17 who already play a string instrument and can read music well are welcome to audition.

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Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra

The Suburban Youth Symphony Orchestra (SYSO) is the top performing group and namesake of the organization.  Students who are accepted into SYSO have successfully completed a comprehensive audition.  Children ages 8-17 who already play a string instrument and can read music well are welcome to audition.