Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the SYO?
- The SYO consists of three programs: the Saskatoon Youth Orchestra itself, a group of young string players known as the Saskatoon Strings and a Double Bass Program.
- When and where does the Saskatoon Youth Orchestra rehearse?
- The SYO rehearses Sunday evenings from 6:00pm - 8:30pm in Quance Theatre, Education Building on the University of Saskatchewan campus.
- What is the playing level of the group?
- Players must audition to be part of the program.
- What are the audition requirements?
- The audition requirements can be found on the Audition Requirements section of this website.
- When are auditions held?
- Auditions are held twice a year, at the end of May and August. Please visit the Audition Information section for the time and location of the auditions and for the contact information.
- What are the ages of the players?
- Saskatoon String players are generally 10 years of age and older.
- Saskatoon Youth Orchestra players are generally between 14 - 22 years of age.
- The Double Bass program is a teaching program for beginning and developing string bass players and is open to all ages.
- What are the fees for the Saskatoon Youth Orchestra?
- Registration Fee – $50.00, $30.00 if family is also registered in Suzuki Strings Program
One per family. - Operational Fee – SYO: $75.00, Saskatoon Strings: $50.00, Double Bass Program: $25.00
One per family, payable at highest rate. - Program Fee – Saskatoon Youth Orchestra: $300.00,
Saskatoon Strings: $210.00, Double Bass Program: $210.00
One per player. If two players are from the same family, deduct 10% from each program fee. Deduct 20% from program fee for each additional player after the first two. - Equipment Usage Fee – $120.00
If applicable, i.e. for double bass rental.
- Registration Fee – $50.00, $30.00 if family is also registered in Suzuki Strings Program
- Is there travel involved with these groups?
- The Saskatoon Strings does a school tour each spring. A bus is provided for them as well as lunch. The group generally visits about 4 or 5 schools. The Saskatoon Youth Orchestra travels to Rosthern in September for a retreat and also does one other trip throughout the year.
- Is their opportunity for fundraising to cover fees and travel costs?
- There are several different options available to players and parents in regards to fundraising. Some of the various activities that are undertaking include: QSP Magazine sales, Safeway and Sobeys Gift card sales, Saskatoon Symphony Gourmet Guides, Saskatoon Youth Orchestra Spring Gala.
- What involvement is expected of me as a parent of a player?
- Each player must work at Sundog Craft Faire (Early December) and usher for a Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra concert. Two shifts at each event are all that is required for the year and these can be worked by the player or by the player’s parent(s). In addition, parents contribute to the general operation of the organization by completing one or two tasks during the season. Sign-up sheets for these required duties are available at registration. Parents are encouraged to attend parent and board meetings and become involved in the various committees.
- Is there a concert dress requirement?
-
Saskatoon Strings players are expected to wear:
Males: Long-sleeved white shirt, black bow tie, black dress pants, black socks, and black dress shoes.
Females: Long-sleeved white blouse, tucked in, below-the-knee black skirt or black dress pants, black nylons, and black dress shoes.Saskatoon Youth Orchestra players are expected to wear:
Males: Black, long-sleeved, collared button-up shirts, black dress trousers, black socks, and black dress shoes.
Females: Top and pants (Vogue pattern #2064), or all black outfits.
Please contact us if you have any further questions.
