The Yavapai Symphony Guild is an auxiliary of the Yavapai Symphony Association. The Guild is an all-volunteer organization that encourages an understanding and enjoyment of classical music for the youth of Yavapai County.

The Guild sponsors two programs each year to accomplish their mission – Young Musicians Scholarship Competition and the Music Memory Program.

The Young Musicians Scholarship Competition

The Young Musicians Scholarship Competition takes place each fall and awards scholarships to young classical musicians in grades 6 through 12.

Categories for the competition include strings, piano, voice and brass/woodwinds. Cash awards are granted for the Junior Division (grades 6 – 9) and the Senior Division (grades 10 -12). Approximately $10,000 is awarded annually to winners in both divisions.

NOTE:  Scholarships are also available to students at the college level, awarded by the Yavapai Symphony Association.  These scholarships are available to students who have interest and a commitment to pursue a professional career as a musical performer, certified music educator or music therapist.  For application procedures, please refer to the page on this website entitled “Music Scholarship”.

The Music Memory Program

The Music Memory Program provides music materials and mentors for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders in area schools. Students are introduced to classical orchestral music, learning about the composers and the structure of the music and orchestra. Approximately 4,500 students attend a Memory Concert at the Tim’s Toyota Center in Prescott Valley in the spring. This year it will be held at Tim’s Toyota Center on March 5, 2012. Call the YSA Office at (928) 445-1788 for tickets and information.

Funds to support the work of the Guild are produced through various fundraising activities held throughout the year including the Phantom Tea and the Fun and Games Party. An annual tea and luncheon is held each September to solicit new members to the Guild. Additionally, monthly concerts are held at the Rowle Simmons Adult Community Center featuring local talented musicians, including Young Musician winners. These concerts are “free” with donations accepted to raise funds for the Guild’s programs.

Local businesses and civic organizations have traditionally been very generous and supportive of the Guild’s work and have supported it through various grants and donations.  2012′s generous supporters include the Yavapai Symphony Association, Prescott Acker Music Association, the Daily Courier, the POPS Symphony Orchestra and Tim’s Toyota Center.

Becoming a member of the Guild

Parties interested in the becoming members of the Guild or supporting its mission of promoting classical music appreciation among area youth can contact the Yavapai Symphony Guild at P.O. Box 2980, Prescott, AZ 86302.