We are the raw orchestra of Melbourne.

We play the classics with a contemporary edge.

We nurture young players.

You won’t hear us play in a concert hall.

You won’t see us play in tails.

You will hear us play with our souls.

You will see us move with emotion.

Photograph and share if you love it. 

Because music is made to be shared and felt.

Our Musicians

We have a diverse group of musicians, ranging from music students, teachers, budding composers to aspiring meteorologists and UX designers. What we share is a passion for music and a desire to share it with the city of Melbourne.

The Artistic Director

Jessica Zuk

Jessica is a Melbourne-based emerging conductor. She is the Music Director of VYSO, and a 2026 Conducting Fellow with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Previously, she served as the 2025 Assistant Conductor of the Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra, and has worked with the Maroondah Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide Summer Orchestra, and Melbourne Bach Choir. She is also a founding co-Artistic Director of Ascolta Qui, a youth-led not-for-profit organisation supporting young musicians.

In 2024, Jess completed an Honours year in conducting at the Elder Conservatorium, studying with Dr Luke Dollman in a program delivered in collaboration with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra. She has participated in masterclasses and training programs with Jessica Cottis, Alice Farnham, Guido Rumstadt, and Keitaro Harada.

Before turning her focus to conducting, Jess completed Bachelor’s and Honours degrees in flute performance at Monash University and the University of Melbourne, respectively.

Photo credit to Caps Off Media

 FAQs

  • Rehearsals are at 9:30 am on Saturdays in Box Hill, with rehearsal dates and schedules given to players at the beginning of each concert season.

  • Musicians aged 16 to 35 are welcome to join VYSO, and will need to be able sightread and play music with ease. Please enquire about vacancies for your particular instrument.

  • There are no auditions necessary, we simply invite those interested along to a rehearsal so they experience the repertoire and community firsthand.

  • Upcoming concerts are always in the works! Head over to the Concerts page to see what we're working on at the moment.

The Victorian Youth Symphony Orchestra is a community not-for-profit organisation and is able to operate with the help of your generous donation and by collecting an annual fee from our members.

Contact us.

Hit us up if you have questions about joining the orchestra or our concerts!