Central Illinois Youth Symphony
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The Central Illinois Youth Symphony, CIYS, in conjunction with the Central Illinois Concert Orchestra are youth organizations designed to challenge, educate, and stimulate advanced music students in Peoria, Illinois and the Central Illinois area. CIYS began in 1965 and in conjunction with the CICO has provided over 2500 students with outlets for musical expression. Each year, some 225 students from grades four through twelve audition for positions in string, brass, percussion, and woodwind sections; membership in the CIYS is limited to high school aged students. Members of the CIYS pay a small tuition fee to participate. The CIYS is directed by David Commanday, who is also the music director of the Peoria Symphony Orchestra.The CICO is directed by Melissa Siebenthal, who is the director of orchestras for Normal Community High School. Rehearsals for the CIYS, CICO, and the Prep String Orchestra are held in Morton, Illinois. Management for the organization is a combination of volunteers and paid staff.
