The Huntsville Youth Orchestra (HYO) nurtures the musical, social, and educational development of young musicians from the Tennessee Valley in an orchestral setting. HYO is dedicated to providing children and youth a fun, musical experience and benefits/rewards that will last a lifetime. The programs instill cooperation, discipline, and patience, developing young musicians into appreciative listeners and participants. Founded in 1961, HYO has three orchestras for auditioned students and four smaller groups for novice to intermediate-level strings from elementary to high school-aged youth. Chamber ensembles for seasoned players are available to play for private and public events. Under the direction of seven conductors, the orchestras of the Huntsville Youth Orchestra perform in a variety of settings, which include scheduled fall, winter, and spring concerts, holiday, and special performances. HYO also hosts the Tennessee Valley Music Festival each summer.