"A life filled with music is a life worth living." This quote perfectly reflects the passion Kevin Vortmann, Executive Director of the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra, and his dedicated colleagues bring to their work. For 60 years the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO) has stood as one of the Eastside's most cherished cultural institutions, enriching the lives of young musicians and the broader community. It has served to deepen each child’s relationship with music and is instrumental in inspiring dedication, leadership, and passion for musical composition and performance.

The Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1964 by Frances Walton who, at 97, is still an active supporter of the organization. She saw a need for talented young musicians on the Eastside to have opportunities to play symphonic music. Originally named the Eastlake Youth Symphony, today’s BYSO is the result of several name changes and mergers with other arts education institutions. The organization experienced steady growth over its first several decades, increasing its capacity and adjusting its programming to meet the Eastside community’s needs.

This growth necessitated a strong administrative leader, and in 1993, Ruth Brewster was named as the organization’s first Executive Director. A lifelong musician, Ruth had the privilege of working alongside many talented individuals. However, she often felt her peers struggled to form meaningful personal connections. Driven by this realization, Ruth envisioned BYSO as an organization that not only nurtures musical talent but also prioritizes character development and genuine human connections. “My goal at BYSO was to make great kids first, and then great musicians,” Ruth recalls.

Today, with Vortmann and Music Director Matthew Salvaggio at the helm, BYSO’s academic year offers eleven ensembles including three string ensembles, four full orchestras, one string and woodwind ensemble, two flute ensembles, and one percussion group. With interest surging by 45% over the past two seasons, nearly 950 students auditioned this year. Approximately 660 are enrolled, with another 150 on a waiting list, showcasing the organization’s growing popularity. Students range from ages 6 to 19 and are placed in ensembles based on live auditions, ensuring skill-based progression. All participants have prior musical training and auditions occur annually (even for returning students), allowing for advancement through the program.

In addition to their eleven ensembles, BYSO produces three weeks of non-audition-based summer camps each July. Nearly 200 students enroll in these camps each year and it houses a competitive paid internship program open to high school students who play in BYSO ensembles. In order to meet the demand of expanded participation, BYSO’s budget nearly doubled in the last three years.

The organization emphasizes ensemble performance rather than individual lessons. Students rehearse weekly guided by 11 conductors and 30+ professional coaches who mentor them toward musical mastery. Quarterly retreats and seasonal concerts at venues like Meydenbauer Center allow students to showcase their skills. Rehearsals are weekly at local schools, with all ensembles practicing simultaneously.

The BYSO fosters a collaborative environment where students deepen their musical connections and grow alongside peers who share their passion. It sees itself as part of an ecosystem in a student’s musical development, with both school music programs and private instruction.

The community impact of BYSO extends far beyond its quarterly performances. Annual highlights include a performance at the Bellevue Family Fourth celebration, where an ensemble of top players performs for over 50,000 attendees, and their live music is timed to accompany the fireworks show. The Fourth of July concert is played alongside professional musicians, providing an invaluable mentorship opportunity that inspires young artists while delivering a memorable show.

The organization also actively engages in community outreach, ensuring that music reaches diverse audiences. Every year, young musicians visit assisted living facilities, shopping centers, educational conventions, and other public spaces to perform free concerts for Eastside residents. They also produce their very own Garden Party at the Bellevue Botanical Gardens, offering a free performance to visitors.

An exciting new pilot program launched in 2025 introduces group instruction to underserved students through the Boys & Girls Club. This 16-week initiative, with a 1:5 instructor-to-student ratio, introduces participants to wind instruments, provides basic instruction, and prepares them for auditions. This effort showcases BYSO’s commitment to expanding access to music education.

The Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra’s impact is undeniable. Whether performing at high-profile events, mentoring young musicians, or bringing music to underserved communities, BYSO continues to shape the cultural fabric of the Eastside.

With a foundation rooted in connection to its community and a commitment to each child they serve, and a future focused on accessibility and excellence, BYSO inspires countless young musicians to pursue their passion, enriches the community through performance, and ensures that music education remains a treasured resource for generations to come.

 

 

Winter Concert Series: Meydenbauer Center Theatre, March 15th-17th

Casino Night Fundraiser: Highland Community Center, March 22nd

 

For more information, go to www.byso.org.