



Since 1978, YOCJ has been nurturing young musicians in Central New Jersey, offering them opportunities to excel in a supportive and challenging environment.
Our ensembles encompass over 200 students from elementary through high school, all of whom take private lessons and participate in their schools’ music programs.

We offer three levels for strings: Sinfonietta Orchestra, Pro Arte Orchestra, and the advanced Symphonic Orchestra. Additionally, we have a Wind Symphony and various small ensembles for brass, percussion, saxophone, flute, and woodwind students.
Next auditions: June 3, 2025
Seasonal Highlights

Philadelphia Orchestra Cellist Yumi Kendall
We are thrilled to announce that our guest artist for the 2025-26 season is cellist Yumi Kendall! Since 2004, Yumi has been a dedicated and deeply active member of The Philadelphia Orchestra as Assistant Principal Cello. She won the position at age 22, during her final year of studies at the Curtis Institute of Music, where she now serves on the cello performance faculty. Ms. Kendall will perform the Dvořák Cello Concerto with our Symphonic Orchestra on January 18, 2026, at TCNJ’s Kendall Hall.

with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra
The 2025-2026 season marks the sixth year of our partnership with the Princeton Symphony Orchestra. We look forward to another season with Maestro Kenneth Bean, PSO coaches for sectionals, and the outstanding concerts of PSO’s upcoming season.
Media Highlights:
The 2025 Splash Reel was created by Briann Dixon Videography
Support YOCJ
creativity of future generations.
Audition for YOCJ!
Auditions for YOCJ’s 2024-25 season have closed.
Click below to learn more.