The Lyceum Orchestra Program was founded by Denise Willey in 1987. Under her direction these talented young musicians performed side-by-side with the Utah Symphony, University of Utah, BYU-Idaho and many other prestigious institutions. In 2005, under her direction, the group was selected as one of only five ensembles nationally to perform at the American String Teachers National Conference. Additionally, many Lyceum musicians have been recognized both locally and nationally for their musical accomplishments including multiple National High School Honors Orchestra and Utah Symphony Salute to Youth performers, winners of the ASTA State and National Competitions, Utah State Fair Music Competition, Utah Valley String Festival, and many college music scholarship recipients.

In 2006, program director Kayson Brown oversaw the group's expansion from a string-only ensemble to a full symphonic orchestra as well as partnerships with Utah Symphony, major university programs, and the commencement of the Lyceum Music Festival. In the fall of 2008, American Heritage School, under the leadership of principal Grant Beckwith, became the new parent organization. The support of this exemplary institution, with a nearly 40-year history of academic excellence and community leadership, has opened many doors for the Lyceum Orchestra Program, including performances with guest artists such as Michael Ballam , Bryan Hernandez- Luch , and The 5 Browns.

In 2009 American Heritage School completed construction on a state of the art orchestra rehearsal and recording facility . The Lyceum Philharmonic was voted Best Children's Performing Ensemble in Utah by Best of State and was one of only three orchestras in the nation to receive an invitation to perform at the 2010 American String Teacher's Association National Convention.

 

Lyceum Philharmonic

Advanced Full Symphony Orchestra led by director Kayson Brown. Instrumentation includes strings, winds, brass and percussion. Music is at a college difficulty level. Students perform the masterworks of the repertory such as Mozart and Beethoven Symphonies alongside professionals and university orchestras. $45 monthly (Sept-April) or $360 per year

Lyceum Chamber Ensemble (LCE)

Advanced Intermediate String Orchestra led by director Denise Willey consisting of the most advanced players in the Chamber Orchestra. Performs music at a high school difficulty level. Students perform rehearse independantly and combined with the Chamber Orchestra. $35 monthly (Sept-April) or $280 per year

Chamber Orchestra

Intermediate String Orchestra led by director Denise Willey. Music is at a high school difficulty level. Students participate in joint concerts with the Lyceum Chamber Ensemble and Lyceum Philharmonic. Students should read music well and be studying with a private teacher. $30 monthly (Sept-April) or $240 per year

Lyceum Jr. Strings

Beginning String Orchestra for talented youngsters who are receiving private lessons, can read music, and have at least one year of playing experience. Students under the age of 8 or with limited music reading experience are strongly encouraged to have a parent attend rehearsals with them. $20 monthly (Sept-April) or $160 per year

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Audition is Required for Entrance into All Ensembles
Returning Ensemble Members Need Not Audition