Youth Ensembles

ANNOUNCEMENT: Placement Interviews for the 2025-26 season will take place on May 19-20 (all slots for May 18th have been taken). Please fill out the form at the bottom of this page to sign up!

The renowned ACG Youth Ensembles bring together passionate young guitarists from all over our city to collaborate, refine, and share unforgettable musical experiences.
ACG Youth Ensembles are open by interview to any classical guitarist under 19 years of age. The Youth Ensembles season runs from September through May, with a winter break. Rehearsals take place weekly at The Rosette, ACG’s home in Hyde Park (3908 Avenue B, 78751).

ACG Youth Camerata

ACGYC is an ensemble of intermediate young guitarists directed by Tony Mariano. This group will develop exciting and approachable programs of music and focus on refining ensemble skills and expressivity.

The Youth Camerata meets weekly on Tuesdays from 6-7pm

ACG Youth Sinfonia

ACGYS is an ensemble of intermediate to advanced young guitarists directed by Stephen Krishnan. This group will continue to develop exciting and approachable programs of music and focus on preparing the necessary ensemble skills and expressivity to be prepared for the ACGYO.

The Youth Sinfonia meets weekly on Mondays from 7-8:30pm

ACG Youth Orchestra

ACGYO is an ensemble of advanced young guitarists. Founded in 2013 under the direction of Dr. Joseph Williams, the ACGYO has performed for thousands in Austin’s most prestigious venues, and has premiered multiple new commissions and arrangements. This group develops challenging programs of music to the highest artistic level. Guitarists are expected to have strong technique, reading skills, and ensemble experience.

The Youth Orchestra meets weekly on Tuesdays from 7pm-9pm

2025-26 Youth Ensemble Placement Interviews

All prospective members of ACG Youth Ensembles, whether new or returning, should sign up for a placement interview at the beginning of each season. These interviews are free, informal, and provide the directors a chance to get to know you, hear you play, provide feedback, and place you in an ensemble.

Placement Interviews for the 2025-26 season will take place on May 19th starting at 5:30pm, and May 20th starting at 5:30pm. All slots for Sunday, May 18 are now full.

What to prepare for placement interviews:

• One or two pieces that you enjoy playing (not to exceed 5 minutes).
• 1 or 2 octave major scale of your choice, with i – m alternation.

You will also be asked to sight-read a short excerpt in first position with simple rhythms.

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