The Youth Symphony of the Southwest was founded in 2006 for the express purpose of supporting and fostering the highest quality music education and to inspire and nurture the love of symphonic repertoire by offering hands on experience to qualified young people between the ages of 15 and 20. Musicians are offered an opportunity to join their peers for a year of intensive practical orchestra training and music performances, including side-by-side performance opportunities with Symphony of the Southwest. Young performers gain the value of dedication, team work and the desire to strive for excellence in music.