SWOSU Music Academy Accepting Registrations for Fall Youth String Ensembles

Festival Youth Orchestra performing at the Spring 2026 Music Academy Recital.

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is accepting registrations for its Fall 2026 youth string ensembles through the SWOSU Music Academy. The academy will offer two ensembles for students this fall, with opportunities for both beginning and intermediate string musicians. Registration is open through Aug. 24.

Festival Youth Strings is designed for students in grades 3 through 7 who are new to string instruments. No previous experience or audition is required. Festival Youth Orchestra is available for intermediate string students in grades 5 through 9 and may require an audition. Both ensembles are directed by Dr. Alex Lee, SWOSU professor of music and director of the SWOSU Symphony Orchestra.

Throughout the semester, students will participate in 10 rehearsals while building their ensemble skills alongside other young musicians. The ensembles will perform two concerts, beginning with a performance alongside the SWOSU Symphony Orchestra on Nov. 17 and concluding with the SWOSU Music Academy Recital on Nov. 22 in Berrong Recital Hall. Classes begin in September and conclude in December.

Enrollment for each ensemble is $125. The Music Academy is also offering a String Scholar Discount for viola, cello, and double bass students who enroll in either ensemble and an Apprentice or Adaptive lesson package. Eligible students will receive a $100 discount. Six discounts are available and will be awarded based on the date of enrollment.

Additional information about the ensembles, lesson packages, and registration is available at https://www.swosucamps.com/music-academy.html. Registration closes Aug. 24.

Questions about the SWOSU Music Academy may be directed to co-directors Kathleen Jung at [email protected] or Chrissy Hagood at [email protected]. Messages may also be left at 580-774-3182.

For more information about the SWOSU Music Academy, visit https://www.swosucamps.com/music-academy.html.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves more than 5,000 students and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.

For more information about Southwestern Oklahoma State University, visit https://www.swosu.edu.