The Ankeny Youth Orchestra

An essential part of learning an instrument is being given opportunities to perform and listen to other musicians. Collaboration and competition encourage growth and inspire string students to practice and develop their skills as musicians. Additionally, making music with others is a lot of fun! It’s a place where string students can feel they belong and make friends with others who share similar interests.  We believe the social aspect of playing in groups, ensembles, and orchestras is essential to the growth and enjoyment of student string players. Because Ankeny School District does not currently offer an orchestra program, we founded the Ankeny Youth Orchestra to provide a place for Ankeny students to meet and play with other string players.

  • Ankeny Youth Orchestra charges a $35.00 fee to register; however, since Ankeny Youth Orchestra is a nonprofit, no student is turned away from registering if the student cannot pay the term fee. If a student cannot pay, just click the “opt-out” button on the registration form.

  • Semesters begin in September, January, and July

  • Rehearsals in Fall and Winter are on Tuesdays from 7:00-8:00 pm. 7:45-8:00 is reserved for more advanced players.

  • Student must have a current private teacher and have completed a minimum of 6 months of private lessons on violin, viola, cello, or upright bass

  • Students must be entering grades 3-12 (may make an exception for advanced younger students.)

REGISTRATION IS OPEN for the SUMMER Term, 2026!

The Ankeny Youth Orchestra is excited to offer a summer orchestra session!  
Please register by June 5, 2026.

Dates:  July 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Time:  9:30-11:00am. Half of the rehearsal time will be spent in orchestra rehearsal, followed by a short break, and the second half will be spent in ensemble or sectional rehearsals according to ability.

We expect students to be ready to play at the start of rehearsal. This means students should arrive 15 minutes early to get their instrument out and tuned.

If a student misses more than one rehearsal without communicating with the conductor, the student will be prohibited from playing in the concert.

Cost:  $35 per student

Performance:  10:30 am, July 10th

Cost: $35 **We never want to turn anyone away so please select "opt-out" if you need to waive the fee due to financial need.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgrmuz4JulXN3qwjMWibCRwSC-0FEhDuRs5-iTBT-TvjbKoA/viewform