North Cook News

Gubernatorial candidate Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Louisville) recently urged area youth to try out for the American Youth Symphony (AYSO).

"This is an exciting opportunity for young musicians," Bailey said in a statement. "I encourage area musicians to try out for the American Youth Symphony Orchestra. It is a great opportunity to learn and grow as a musician." 

AYSO is hosting auditions for its 2022 season in the autumn. The initial tryout date was held on Sept. 4 and will resume on Sunday, Sept.18. Those who pass the audition can start joining the other members for rehearsals starting Saturday, Sept. 24. The audition fee is $25 and interested youth should register at aysomusic.org/auditions/. Youngsters who already know how to play all string, wind, brass, percussion, and keyboard instruments are urged to audition.

AYSO is the leading youth orchestra in the Chicago suburbs. It is seeking to equip young artists with musical inventiveness by instilling a passion for music and committing to the highest levels of musical performance. AYSO will enable students to broaden their training through multiple concerts throughout the year by demonstrating professional leadership and motivation to exceptional young musicians, according to Patch.

Orchestra membership is available to children from 7 to 18 years old. It is part of the American Music Institute's kids program in Clarendon Hills. The group emphasizes its dedication to developing young performers. According to its mission statement, AYSO aims to "provide professional leadership and experience to talented young musicians. This inspiration can enable them to expand their musical horizons and enables them to perform to the best of their ability. Allowing young artists to expand their imagination by nurturing a love of music is key to their development and success."