Created in 1964, the East Central Indiana Youth Symphony Orchestra brings together young and talented musicians from around the region for wonderful experiences in the making of music. Under the auspices of the School of Music and the Ball State University Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Bridget-Michael Reischl, each week the young musicians come to the campus of Ball State University and have educational and insightful rehearsals in the School of Music. The experiences that are had supplement programs in the student's schools, as well as plays an important role in the lives of those students who do not have music ensembles in their schools.
Each student has the opportunity for obtaining a scholarship award after their initial semester with the organization. Many of today's members receive full scholarships to participate in the ECIYSO. Scholarships are also available, to those students deserving, for summer music camps or workshops, such as the Interlochen or Aspen summer music programs.
To assist the School of Music, at Ball State University, a community Board of Directors was formed and gained nonprofit corporation certification. The responsibilities of the Board are to provide scholarship funds, assist with tour funding and to maintain a list of area music teachers, community institutions that teach music and area music students. This year marks the beginning of a special committee of important people: the Parent's Committee. This committee will be made up of parents of students in the program. This type of group is instrumental in the cohesion and public visibility of the ensemble and its students.
There are three annual concerts during the year. Held in the newly constructed Sursa Hall on the BSU campus, concerts are free and open to the public.
Come join us, as we fill the air with sounds of Mozart, Beethoven and other well-known composers whose music has enriched people's lives for centuries.