Frequently Asked Questions - Tuition & Financial Assistance

  • Tuition & Fees for 2025-2026

    After acceptance into the program, families will receive a payment link. All fees are nonrefundable. The MYSP is happy to offer payment plans and financial assistance to families that demonstrate need. No accepted student will be turned away due to inability to pay.

    All fees are subject to change each year

    Youth Symphony & Chamber Orchestra: $600 (Fall $300, Spring $300)

    String Orchestra: $500 (Fall $250, Spring $250)

    Intermezzo Orchestra: $400 (Fall $200, Spring $200)

    Prelude Strings: $400 (Fall $200, Spring $200)

    Concert Band: $450 (Fall $225, Spring $225)

    Spring Wind Ensemble: $300

    Chamber Music Ensembles: $100 per semester

  • Tuition helps support:

    • Rehearsals

    • Conductors and coaches

    • Music purchases and rentals

    • Concert production

    • Administrative operations

    • Educational programming

    • Facility rentals

  • Yes. MYSP is committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent students from participating.

  • Talent Scholarships are full tuition scholarships opportunity for African American and LatinX students.

    In an effort to diversify the future of classical music, the MYSP is proud to provide a Talent Scholarship opportunity for any African American or Latinx student who auditions for and is accepted into an MYSP ensemble.

  • Families may complete a confidential financial assistance application after registering.

  • Yes. Payment plans are available.

  • Some optional activities may involve additional costs, such as audition fees, special events, or merchandise purchases.

  • Yes. Students who are accepted into MYSP are expected to participate for the full season in their assigned ensemble.

    While tuition payments are divided by semester for convenience, ensemble placements are made with the expectation that students will remain in the program throughout the academic year. Because MYSP ensembles function as collaborative performing groups, consistent membership is extremely important for:

    • Ensemble balance and instrumentation

    • Repertoire selection and programming

    • Seating and musical preparation

    • Overall ensemble continuity and student experience

    When students withdraw midseason, it can significantly affect both the musical and operational planning of the ensemble. Families are encouraged to carefully consider scheduling and commitment expectations before accepting placement.

    If unexpected circumstances arise during the season, families should communicate with MYSP staff as early as possible.

  • Memphis Youth Symphony Program is a nonprofit organization funded through a combination of:

    • Tuition and participation fees

    • Individual donations

    • Grants and foundation support

    • Corporate sponsorships

    • Concert ticket sales

    • Fundraising events and campaigns

    • Community partnerships

    MYSP receives support from families, alumni, donors, arts organizations, and community supporters who believe in providing high-quality musical opportunities for young musicians throughout the Mid-South.

    Tuition alone does not cover the full cost of operating MYSP. Contributions from donors and grant organizations help support:

    • Financial assistance and scholarships

    • Conductors, coaches, and teaching artists

    • Music purchases and rentals

    • Concert production

    • Educational programming

    • Facility rentals

    • Community outreach initiatives

    This support allows MYSP to continue providing meaningful musical experiences while working to ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent students from participating.