Youth Education Programs at FWCS Youth Education Prog. The first local Youth Orchestra was founded in 1959. Since then it has evolved into an extensive program that offers children a chance to participate in one of six orchestras, chamber ensembles, a summer program, an annual young artists competition, and more.
Students come from Tampa and Port Charlotte to take advantage of the unique opportunities provided.
A free bus is available on Saturday mornings from six locations in Manatee county. The philosophy underlying the program is to involve all interested children in classical and symphonic music, both as audience members and music-makers. Former participants have gone on to join major symphony orchestras, teach music, become administrators for musical institutions, or simply love and enjoy music. Conductors and coaches are selected from the bi-county area. It is our strong belief that the school music programs in which students participate on a daily basis are the backbone of their music education.