Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras Receives Cultural Tourism Grant, Advancing Arts in Orange County

Orange County's Office of Arts and Cultural Affairsrecently announced the recipients of its Cultural Tourism grant program and celebrated them at the Third Annual ACT Awards, which recognizes organizations that strengthen the region's cultural landscape.

Funded by a percentage of the Tourist Development Tax , the Cultural Tourism Grant supports nonprofit arts and cultural organizations that enhance Orange County's appeal as a destination while enriching the lives of residents. The ACT Awards , established in 2023, formally celebrate these organizations for their artistic excellence and community impact.

Among this year's recipients is Florida Symphony Youth Orchestras (FSYO), a nonprofit organization that has helped shape young musicians across Central Florida for nearly 70 years.

"For us to be a first-time recipient of this grant is a huge milestone," said Abigail Tran, executive director of FSYO. "To be in a community that values the arts and believes in the power of the arts - it means everything to our organization."

Founded as a supplemental music education program, FSYO operates as what Tran calls a "travel team for music students." The audition-based program brings together more than 320 students ages 8 to 18 from across Central Florida, representing both public and private schools, from 9 different counties. Students rehearse on Sundays during the school year and perform 10 to 15 concerts annually across eight ensembles, with rehearsals held at Lyman High School. During the 2024-2025 season, over 6,000 people experienced FSYO in concert.

"We're here for students who want to go above and beyond what they're doing at school," explained Tran. "Every single person in an ensemble pulls the same weight, which teaches teamwork and accountability at the highest level."

Beyond musical growth, the orchestra builds leadership, discipline and problem-solving abilities. Section leaders mentor younger musicians, reinforcing preparation and collaboration.

"It doesn't matter where you sit," asserted Tran. "Every musician contributes to the final sound. If one part isn't ready or one person plays in a rest, it impacts the whole performance - and that's a powerful lesson in accountability."

Accessibility remains central to FSYO's mission. This year, the organization awarded nearly $25,000 in tuition scholarships to ensure students from diverse backgrounds can participate.

"To have this kind of high-level youth orchestra in Orange County is a tremendous asset to our community," said Tran. "When the arts flourish, the community thrives - and we're shaping future leaders who will continue to support and sustain them."

The Cultural Tourism grant will allow FSYO to expand its marketing and outreach efforts across Central Florida.

"We've often been called one of the region's best-kept secrets," said Tran. "This grant helps us strengthen our presence and open doors for more young musicians."

As Orange County continues to grow, investments like the Cultural Tourism grant program ensure the arts remain central to the region's cultural vitality - inspiring visitors, cultivating talent, and building community.