Each year the Youth Symphony sponsors three concerto competitions, one for the Symphony Orchestra and each of the two Philharmonic Orchestras. The winners perform with their respective orchestras. The Symphony Orchestra's concerto concert also features the winner of the Kansas Music Teachers' Association concerto competition. Auditions and School Participation Musicians audition in May to qualify for Youth Symphony programs. Weekly rehearsals are at the heart of the Youth Symphony study, preparing the musicians for performances.
Private study is encouraged.
Because the Youth Symphony is committed to supporting and enhancing school music programs, Youth Symphony musicians must participate in their school music programs if available. The Youth Symphony Orchestra continues a tradition of extensive touring. In July 2000 the Symphony Orchestra travelled to Italy to be the only American Youth Symphony participating in a European-wide Youth Symphony Festival in Montecatini. In the United States, the Symphony Orchestra has performed in Chicago, Washington, D.C. and twice in New York City, once for the 1964 World's Fair and once in Carnegie Hall. Internationally, the Symphony Orchestra has performed in London and has toured Spain, culminating in performances at the International Expo of 1992.