Rehearsal & Attendance Policy

Members of BIYO are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances and abide by the 5 Ps of Promptness, Preparedness, Perspective, Participation, and Positivity outlined in the Code of Conduct.  Every student plays an integral role in the success of the orchestra whether as a leader, a section member or a stand partner. No matter your role, every student is critical to the success of the performing group.  

The conductor and Board understand that emergencies such as illness and family matters do arise. In this event, please email the conductor at [email protected] (Symphonic & Chamber Orchestras) or [email protected] (Prelude & Debut Orchestra) as soon as possible to provide notification of absence. 

Absences must be communicated to the director in advance of the rehearsal to be missed. Do not exceed 2 absences per concert cycle, or discuss your unique needs with the director as soon as possible: students receiving school credit for attending rehearsals may be penalized for missing more than 2 rehearsals per concert cycle.

Rehearsals will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church on Thursdays as follows: 
  • Prelude Orchestra 3-3:45PM
  • Debut Orchestra   4-5pm
  • Sinfonietta  5:15-6:45pm                         
  • Senior  7pm-8:30pm
You are encouraged to use an electronic tuner before each rehearsal session. (In Prelude & Debut Orchestras, the conductor will assist with tuning).  Once rehearsal begins, there is a zero-tolerance policy on electronics. If you use a digital sheet music device, you may be asked to use traditional paper copies if you are unable to utilize the tool properly.
Each musician is responsible for marking their music at each rehearsal. Even if you are using your stand partner's music, there will be periodic checks to ensure the music you use to practice has accurate markings. In short: bring a pencil, bring your music, and mark your music especially if you are using someone else's in rehearsal.

Seating and Rotation Policy
  • In our orchestra, each musician is equally important. To experience the full diversity of the orchestral process you will be asked to sit in multiple seating configurations. Refer again to the 5 P's and accept the opportunity to expand your knowledge and perspective within each role you are called to serve.

Concert Dress 
Prelude Orchestra
  • Seasonal colored tops; Black bottoms, black socks/hosiery, black shoes
Debut Orchestra
  • White tops (long sleeve preferred); black bottoms, black socks/hosiery, black shoes 
Symphonic Orchestra
  • White tops (long sleeve preferred); black bottoms, black socks/hosiery, black shoes 
Chamber Orchestra
100% of your donations go directly to the orchestra, accounting for 30% of our budget. We can't do it without you!
BIYO is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Your gift is tax ​deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
The Bainbridge Island Youth Orchestra, founded in 2001, is a training program for young string musicians seeking an orchestral ensemble experience.  It has evolved into a four-tier orchestra program providing music education for all levels, from the emerging reader to the advanced musician.  BIYO's goal is to train the student musician in the craft of orchestra playing while instilling a deep love for music and fostering development of a well-rounded individual.

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