Millie’s experience with the orchestra is a testament to the program’s success. After three years of playing, she has grown tremendously as a musician and has developed a deep appreciation for the art of music. The Empire State Youth Orchestra has been instrumental in helping her achieve her goals and has provided her with a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

By donating to this program, you can help ensure that it remains available to young people in the surrounding communities. Your contribution will help provide instruments, music lessons, and other resources that are essential to the success of the program. Your generosity will make a difference in the lives of many young people and will help ensure that the gift of music is available to all.

Thank you for your support of the Empire State Youth Orchestra and for your commitment to the arts. Your donation will help make a difference in the lives of many young people and will help ensure that the program continues to thrive for years to come.

🎶 SUPPORT THE FUTURE OF MUSIC 🎶

Playathon is ESYO’s most important friend-raiser and fundraiser of the year! This fun-filled day of music raises money for ESYO while showcasing the breadth & depth of our program! This free, family event takes place on Saturday, March 23rd from 10:30am through 5:15pm at Crossgates Mall and showcases hundreds of young musicians. It's the only day of the year where all ESYO ensembles (including CHIME) perform—from the deep rumble of the percussion ensembles to the uplifting trills of the wind orchestra. The day also includes live auctions, including a chance to lead one of the ensembles!

The marathon display of musical talent is more than simply a community concert, it helps ESYO ensure no qualified musician is ever turned away from the ESYO Experience because of an inability to pay. Your support is needed now more than ever. The money raised will fund a substantial portion of ESYO’s operating expenses and musician scholarships.

Our Playathon fundraising goal for 2024 is $120,000. To reach our goal, we have challenged each ensemble, our board of directors, and our staff with their own fundraising goal. Help them get there by giving generously today!