Youth Music Monterey has fostered the excellence of local student musicians by:

• Inspiring and challenging students to high levels of musical achievement
• Instilling standards of excellence, responsibility, and determination
• Supporting and improving academic performance
• Teaching cooperation and leadership skills in a diverse environment
• Communicating respect for the special contributions and abilities of young people to their families and the community at large

Our Mission

To provide high-caliber opportunities and incentives for young people to enrich their lives and benefit the community through the performance and greater understanding of music.

Orchestras with Class

Each year, the Youth and Honors Orchestras provide approximately 120 students an opportunity to supplement their school and private music studies with high-caliber ensemble playing experience under the direction of professional conductor John Larry Granger. This experience helps them develop knowledge of symphonic literature, as well as technical and artistic skill. The orchestras draw many of the best young musicians from throughout Monterey County - from Salinas and Aromas to Carmel Valley and Pebble Beach.
Click here for Recent Photo Galleries of the Youth and Honors Orchestras of Monterey County

Accessible and Essential Strings

YMM's South County Strings program involves formal partnerships between YMM and a number of South County school districts, serving approximately 120 students each year. A team of string instructors provide violin, viola, and cello instruction in private or group lessons either during the school day or immediately following. Students are not charged for the lessons. YMM and the schools share the cost of the instructors' salaries. YMM provides students with instruments for a modest monthly rental cost. Lead String Instructor Steve Ettinger also conducts the South Monterey County Youth Orchestra.

Community Support

A cadre of community members support the programs of Youth Music Monterey through:

• Concert attendance
• Personal donations
• Business donations and sponsorships
• Volunteering
• Grants
• Board, Staff, and Volunteers

History

Youth Music Monterey was established as a 501(c)(3) organization in 1988 with the merger of two programs: the Youth Orchestra of Monterey County (est. 1981) and Summer Music Monterey (est. 1965).