For opportunities to partner and support YOP, contact Kent Paulsen by clicking here

Welcome to the Youth Orchestra Program of St. Norbert College!

The Youth Orchestra Program of St. Norbert College (YOP) was formerly known as the Green Bay Symphony Youth Orchestra Program.  When the GBSO closed their doors in 2015, St. Norbert College recognized the importance of the organization and has provided a partnership that will allow the music to carry on!

We rehearse on Sundays, typically beginning mid-September until the fall concert, then again from mid-January through mid-March. Rehearsals are held in the Abbot Pennings Hall of Fine Arts on the beautiful St. Norbert campus.  Concerts are held at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts or the Ashwaubenon Performing Arts Center.

Rehearsal Times 
  • String Orchestra  12:30 - 1:30
  • Philharmonia 1:45 - 3:15
  • Youth Symphony 3:30 - 5:45

Our Ensembles
There are three orchestras in the Youth Orchestra Program.

  1. The String Orchestra  The String Orchestra is the first orchestra in our program, and is for students who study violin, viola, cello and bass.  Typically students range from grades 4 - 8 in this ensemble.  Students should be able to play a Class C solo and should be able to read music at least at a Grade 1.5 level (questions about this can be directed to Audrey Nowak at [email protected]).  This level explores wonderful repertoire while learning the basics of orchestral playing (proper bowing, following a conductor, learning about orchestral techniques etc.).
  2. The Philharmonia The Philharmonia is our middle-level full orchestra. Typically students in this orchestra range from grades 8 - 12.  The Philharmonia provides a full orchestra experience for our students.  This means that it includes string players but also winds, brass, and percussion.  This is unique to our area and a chance for tremendous musical growth!
  3. The Youth Symphony  Typically students in this orchestra range from grades 10 through age 21.  This is a high level experience and students study classic orchestral repertoire, including major Masterworks from a variety of musical periods.

​ Auditions for our ensembles usually happen in the spring or at the beginning of the school year.  However, we are always looking for talented musicians to join us!  If you'd like more information about our program or would like to schedule an audition, please check out the audition information  by clicking the button below.   You may also contact Youth Orchestra Program manager Audrey Nowak. 
Audition Information