FYS, KYS, MBYS, PYS, SYS, & WIYS

The Northwest Youth Symphony Association (NYSA), a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is comprised of six distinct branches: Fidalgo Youth Symphony (FYS), Pilchuck Youth Symphony (PYS), Mount Baker Youth Symphony (MBYS), Kulshan Youth Symphony (KYS), Whidbey Island Youth Symphony (WIYS), and Salish Youth Symphony (SYS). Together, they bring quality orchestral experiences to youth across the region.

FYS, established in 1995, offers orchestral training and experience for talented young musicians in Northwest Washington. FYS rehearses weekly during the academic year on Thursday evenings in Mount Vernon and performs four Saturday concerts throughout the season.

PYS is launching in 2025 and is a smaller satellite location for students who live further south. PYS rehearses weekly during the academic year on Thursday evenings in Marysville and joins the other branches for the four Saturday concerts in Mount Vernon.

MBYS, established in 1990, is a smaller satellite location for students who live further north. MBYS rehearses weekly on Monday evenings in Bellingham and joins the other branches for the four concerts in Mount Vernon.

KYS is launching in 2025 and is a smaller satellite location for students who live further north. KYS rehearses weekly during the academic year on Monday evenings in Lynden and joins the other branches for the four Saturday concerts in Mount Vernon.

WIYS, established in 2023, is a mid-size satellite location for students who live on the north end of Whidbey Island. WIYS rehearses weekly in Oak Harbor on Monday evenings and join the other branches for the four concerts in Mount Vernon.

SYS was established in 2024 for students who live on south Whidbey Island. SYS rehearses weekly in Freeland, WA on Monday evenings and join the other branches for the four concerts in Mount Vernon.

The paid staff for the branches are as follows:

Four geographically distanced branches — Fidalgo Youth Symphony, (FYS) Mount Baker Youth Symphony, (MBYS), Whidbey Island Youth Symphony (WIYS) and Salish Youth Symphony (SYS) function under the non-profit umbrella organization of Northwest Youth Symphony Association (NYSA), which is a registered 501(c)3.

Youth Symphony

The premier ensemble of our organization, designed for accomplished musicians up to the age of 24. This group performs advanced symphonic repertoire, offering a challenging and enriching experience that hones artistic and technical excellence.

Junior Symphony

A dynamic ensemble for musicians with at least two years of instrumental experience. Members explore symphonic arrangements that build essential skills, preparing them for advanced performance opportunities.

Sinfonette

An inviting entry point for beginning musicians who can read music. This ensemble provides a supportive environment to develop foundational skills and prepare for participation in our larger programs. All symphonic instruments are welcome!