MacPhail Northside Youth Orchestra (MNYO)

A tuition-free symphonic orchestra program in North Minneapolis

We believe in the transformational power of music, and strive to create a welcoming space that encourages musical growth and development.

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Announcements

Audition Requirements

Announcements

Welcome to MNYO!!! We look forward to seeing old friends and hoping to meet new ones!

Our 3rd retreat to Madeline Island was truly amazing! We’d love for you to join us for our 4th visit next summer, so we can once again experience the beauty and serenity of Madeline Island together!

Chi-Chi Lin Bestmann, Artistic Director and Conductor

Audition Requirements

Two (one octave) scales of your choice or One (two octave) scale of your choice.
One piece (2~3 mins) that you are currently working on or have worked on over the summer.
There may be a short sight-reading piece.
Percussionist(s): please discuss with your teacher and play what’s recommended by your teacher.
Register!

The Pre-requisites for MNYO

Students must be entering grades 7-12 and have at least 1 year of previous experience playing their instrument (either in individual lessons or in a school program).
Students should also have access to an instrument (permission from school to bring their instrument to rehearsals and for home practice).
Students must audition on one of the following instruments: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Tuba, Percussion, Violin, Viola, Cello or Double Bass.

What to Expect

Students in our ensemble range from mid-beginner to late-intermediate level. We encourage mentoring friendship amongst our orchestra members.
Students should plan on attending rehearsals weekly and taking their music home for additional practice
Most rehearsals will include a full orchestra rehearsal, sectionals, bucket drumming and other enrichment activities, including guest artist visits from the Minnesota Orchestra
MNYO performs 3-6 times in a school year, mostly between January-May.

string section of youth orchestra performing

photos by Jen Bischoff (jenwithalens.com), used with permission

MNYO Calendar 2024-25

Download the MNYO Calendar for 2024 – 2025 (pdf)

Important Dates

Fall 2024

October 5 – Audition/First Day
October 19 – MEA (no rehearsal)
November 30 – Thanksgiving (no rehearsal)
December 21 & 28 – Winter break (no rehearsal)
January 28 – Orchestra Hall Lobby Pre-Concert
January 31 – Winter Concert

Spring 2025

February 13 – MMEA
March 9 – School Partnership Recital
March 15 – SAM graduation (no rehearsal)
April 5 – Spring break (no rehearsal)
May 19 – Music Matters
July 30 – August 3 – MI Retreat
August 5 – National Night Out