For some musicians at Holy Trinity, their love for music transcends beyond the classroom and follows them into the greater community at the Brevard Symphony Youth Orchestra. 

The Brevard Symphony Youth Orchestra, commonly known as BSYO, is a local orchestra open to all high school students who are passionate about performing and improving their musical skills. Typically, the BSYO meets every Monday at Eau Gallie High School and hosts concerts throughout the school year. 

“We have concerts twice a semester and the next concert is in December,” senior Sofia Alikhan said. 

Alikhan has played the violin and been a member of the BSYO for the last six years. To Alikhan, the BSYO has allowed her to grow closer to HT musicians who share classes with her and other musicians from nearby schools. 

In addition to the friendly community at the BSYO, students are able to explore their passion for music. From teaching efficient playing techniques to sight-reading difficult rhythms, the BSYO is focused on improving musical performance and playing complex music.  

“BSYO has improved my ensemble playing a lot because I get the opportunity to play with multiple levels of students and music,” sophomore Essa Jackson said. 

Jackson has played the violin for five years and has been a part of BSYO for three years. To her, she values the insight that she gains and is motivated to improve both her playing and performance skills. 

Likewise, for senior John Mitnik, the BSYO has not only improved his clarinet skills but also taught him the importance of elevating a performance. 

“The other clarinetists comported themselves in a professional manner and that was something I really applied to myself,” Mitnik said. 

Originally influenced by his clarinet teacher, Mitnik has been a part of the BSYO for two years and has enjoyed the positive learning environment. Through socializing and bonding with other student musicians, the BSYO embraces the company of each unique individual. Ultimately, the heart and soul lie in its comradery and fun environment that the BSYO provides. 

“We have a lot of inside jokes about Ratatouille and our conductor relates it back to our orchestra music,” freshman and viola player Reese Racho said. 

From jokes about movies to teaching young musicians new techniques, the BSYO embraces the whole spirit of an individual, both on and off the stage.