The Young People’s Symphony Orchestra (YPSO), California’s oldest independent youth orchestra, proudly announces its 2025–2026 Season, marking the orchestra’s 89th year of inspiring young musicians and audiences alike. The milestone season features exciting repertoire, a celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, and the anticipation of YPSO’s International Tour in June 2026.
2025–2026 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
● Fall Concert – Season Opening Night (Nov 8, 2025)
Berlioz: Le Corsaire Overture
Ravel: Rapsodie Espagnole
Dvořák: Symphony No. 8
● Winter Concert – Echoes of the Northern Lights (Feb 21, 2026)
Featuring YPSO’s Concerto Competition Winner
Sibelius: Symphony No. 1 and more
● Spring Concert – Celebration of American Music (May 2, 2026)
Works by Barber, Bernstein, Copland, and more honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary
● Pre-Tour Pops! Concert – June 7, 2026
A festive send-off before YPSO’s International Tour
Tickets & Information:
$20 General | Students Free (must register online)
Box Office & Concert Info
Fall Concert – Season Opening Night
YPSO kicks off its 89th season with a vibrant program on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 7:30 PM at First Church Berkeley. The evening opens with Berlioz’s Le Corsaire Overture, a thrilling work full of drama and orchestral color. Next, the orchestra performs Ravel’s Rapsodie Espagnole, evoking the dances and rhythms of Spain with lush orchestration. The concert concludes with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, admired for its pastoral character, sophisticated harmonies, and dynamic orchestral textures.
“This concert highlights the talents of our young musicians and introduces YPSO’s new season. As we look ahead to our international tour, we are excited to share these performances with our community,” said Nadia Liu, Executive Director.
About YPSO and Maestro David Ramadanoff
Now in its 89th season, YPSO brings together 86 young musicians, ages 11–18, from across the Bay Area. Music Director David Ramadanoff has led YPSO for over three decades, inspiring generations of musicians. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he studied at the Cleveland Institute of Music and The Juilliard School before serving as Assistant Conductor of the San Francisco Symphony under Seiji Ozawa. Maestro Ramadanoff selects programs that highlight diverse eras and composers while fostering each student’s musical growth.
Founded in 1936 in Berkeley, YPSO is California’s oldest youth orchestra and the first independent youth orchestra in the nation. Its mission is to “encourage young people to become exemplary musicians and young musicians to become exemplary people.” YPSO presents four regular concerts per season and engages with the community through programs such as Bread & Roses and the Bay Area Music Project, bringing music to new audiences and fostering civic responsibility. The orchestra is supported by community organizations, foundations, donors, and the dedication of students, families, and volunteers.
Open Rehearsal & Accessibility
YPSO invites the public to attend an Open Rehearsal during the final dress rehearsal the day before each concert. Drop in to see the orchestra in action and experience young musicians preparing for performance. Open to prospective families, relatives unable to attend the concert, and teachers with students interested in joining YPSO.
Register here: tinyurl.com/ypso-open-reh
YPSO is committed to accessibility for all. Concert venues, lobbies, and reception areas are fully accessible. Free student tickets are available with valid ID; reserve online at www.ypsomusic.org/events.
Photos courtesy of YSPO