Founded in 1977, the Youth Orchestras of Charlottesville-Albemarle provides a full and enriching orchestral experience for young people throughout the Central Virginia area. YOCA is comprised of two full symphony orchestras, a strings program, and three ensembles, all of which rehearse and perform in Charlottesville, Virginia. Each orchestra and ensemble rehearses weekly, has its own conductor and performs in three concerts during the season. Youth Orchestras also sponsors the Martha Dugan Concerto Competition for orchestral instruments and, along with the Charlottesville Music Teachers Association, co-sponsors the CMTA-YOCA Piano Competition. Winners of these competitions perform in concert with the Youth Orchestra during the concert season. Except for the Junior Strings Program, admission to all ensembles and orchestras is by audition only.

Mission Statement The Youth Orchestras of Charlottesville-Albemarle seeks to provide quality instruction and varied performance opportunities in full orchestral, ensemble and chamber music for the young people of central Virginia. Our commitment to musical excellence fosters our members' lifelong love of music and our performances enrich the musical life of the community.