About Pacific Symphony Youth Concert Band

Now in their 4th season, Pacific Symphony Youth Concert Band (PSYCB) is the newest addition to the PSYE family of ensembles. Founded in 2022 through the generous sponsorship and advocacy of Hans and Valerie Imhof, PSYCB is led by renowned music educator Angela Woo.

Under the creative leadership of Alexander Shelley, Pacific Symphony’s Artistic and Music Director Designate, PSYCB continues to build upon the rich legacy established by Music Director Laureate Carl St.Clair. Together, their vision reflects a shared commitment to inspiring the next generation of artists and audiences.

Representing over 32 schools throughout the Southern California region, PSYCB provides an experience that nurtures the confidence, poise, and musical sensitivity of young musicians through the study and performance of outstanding concert band literature. PSYCB serves gifted instrumentalists in grades 6 through 9 and is one of four youth ensembles offered by Pacific Symphony’s Youth Ensembles program.

PSYCB members benefit from the mentorship of Maestros Shelley and St.Clair, receive regular coaching from Pacific Symphony musicians, perform twice each season at the magnificent Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa, CA, and look forward to future touring opportunities.

Membership in the Pacific Symphony Youth Ensembles program is determined through annual auditions held each spring, drawing more than 700 applicants each year. Graduates of the program go on to study at leading institutions including Juilliard, Johns Hopkins University/Peabody Institute, UCLA, University of Michigan, Stanford, USC, Brown, Vanderbilt, Yale, and many more.