SWSYL Information 2023-2024 Season
The Southwest Symphony Youth League is open to anyone ages 12-18. You don’t need to play an instrument to join this elite group! All you need is a passion for music, a willingness to give service, and a little bit of time. Space is limited so reserve your membership today!
What Is the League and What Do We Do?
The Southwest Symphony Youth League (SWSYL) is an organization with the mission to give young people interested in classical music a community in which they can foster their interests, learn from professionals, and create bonds with one another. By joining SWSYL, youth and their families will gain access to these exciting opportunities:
Opening social on September 21, 2023 - food and drinks! Make connections with the professional musicians and music teachers in the symphony!
Attend free symphony concerts
Interact directly with the musicians in the SWS, guest artists, and more
Represent the Southwest Symphony in their schools and other organizations
Experience Exclusive Music Events
Those who are interested in learning more about classical music will benefit greatly from the opportunities provided to the SWSYL - whether you play an instrument or not!
Preconcert lecture on Sep 21, 2023
Opportunities to attend the dress rehearsal prior to each of the 6 SWS performances during the season
Free ticket to concerts if you are involved as a volunteer, plus a 50% discount for two additional tickets to that concert
All SWSYL members receive a 25% discount on concert tickets
For musicians, the chance to perform in the lobby prior to a SWS performance, date TBD based on the location of the concerts, due to the remodeling of the Cox auditorium
SWSYL members will be contacted first for the opportunity to play for guest artist during a master class this season
Closing social and recital at the end of the season
Membership, along with leadership opportunities, look great on a resume or college application
Free t-shirt and other swag!
Membership Responsibilities
As a member of the League, you will be an ambassador to the Washington County area, helping to spread the joy and inspiration that come from playing and listening to symphonic music. There are many roles to fill! During our concerts, we need volunteers willing to:
Distribute programs and usher patrons to their seats
Interact with concertgoers prior to performances, take photos, and post on social media
Work in teams to ensure everyone’s concert experience goes smoothly
Distributing advertising material
Providing assistance during SWS special events, like our Gala
Writing an article for your school or club newsletter
Receive coaching from SWS members and guest artists
How does the League Work?
League membership requires a minimum amount of participation from both members and their parents, and is based on a points system. During the season, league members must accumulate at least 5 points by providing service as described above. Parents of league members must also volunteer to help coordinate at least one event during the season. League members who do not accumulate the minimum amount of points may not renew their membership the following season.
Point valued activities (one point each)
Volunteer at a performance of the Southwest Symphony, as described above. League members are granted a ticket to that night’s performance, and may purchase two additional tickets at a 50% discount.
Volunteer for one other SWS special event - master class, concerto competition, or Gala. Responsibilities will shift based on the nature of the event.
Write an article for your school newspaper (or a newsletter for another organization) about a Southwest Symphony performance.
Distribute 5 pieces of SWS advertising (posters) to venues around the city.
Other activities may qualify as earning points; opportunities will be made known as they become available.
Stand out from the crowd! As part of your application, you may request to be considered for a position in the League Leadership Circle. This is a great opportunity to gain leadership experience, add a unique line to your resume, and get involved at a higher level. The Leadership Circle will provide input to the SWS as to what events should be developed, ways the SWS can help their local schools and music clubs, and how to continue expanding our influence.
Season Sponsors
The Southwest Symphony gratefully recognizes the generous support of our donors, who realize the immense value that music holds for us all.
