In 1957, Alphonse Carlo, concertmaster emeritus of the Florida Symphony Orchestra, recognized a need for a youth orchestra in Central Florida in which young musicians could develop their talents. Young musicians were invited to attend and participate in rehearsals with Florida Symphony Orchestra musicians and the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra was born. Carlo nurtured the orchestra and served as its principal conductor for 15 years. In 1981, a second training orchestra was formed to meet the needs of the emerging music student. Today, entering its 62nd Concert Season, the FSYO is comprised of 6 orchestras. The FSYO is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra aims to educate and inspire Central Florida’s top young musicians. All programs reflect a commitment to provide young musicians with the opportunity to strengthen their musical talents and develop an appreciation of the arts through classical music.