Programs

Conductor Apprentice Program

This program, open to current & former TYSA students and local college students, trains young musicians ages 16-21 in the art of conducting. Participants learn skills such as baton technique, score analysis, rehearsing and performing with TYSA ensembles, and more!

Conductor Apprentice Program

Apply for the Conductor Apprentice Program

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Conductor Apprentice Program (CAP) is designed to provide young musicians interested in pursuing the field of conducting the opportunity and experiences necessary to begin that journey.

CAP apprentice(s) receive regular coachings and lessons on various topics relevant to the technique of conducting. Topics include baton technique, score analysis, ear training, music theory, and rehearsal management. The apprentice(s) will have the opportunity to attend rehearsals of Symphony Tacoma to observe the conducting and rehearsal techniques of their music director and guest conductors. Apprentice(s) will also have the opportunity to conduct ensembles of TYSA. The culmination of the program will consist of an opportunity to conduct one of the orchestras of TYSA in performance; scheduling of this opportunity will be made at the discretion of the Music Director.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

The Conductor Apprentice Program is open to any current or former TYSA member or local college student between 16 and 21 years of age. The application process for this program includes the completion of an online application form and the submission of a personal essay. All materials (baton, musical scores, etc.) will be provided by TYSA. CAP participants will regularly play in class meetings on their respective instruments as part of an ad hoc ensemble during conducting practicum.

SCHEDULE

Coachings will be held biweekly on Wednesdays from 6:30-7:50 PM in the TYSA offices:

Wednesday, October 15 (CAP class meeting and Symphony Tacoma Rehearsal 7:30-10 PM)
*Attending the entirety of the ST rehearsal is not required. *
Wednesday, October 29 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, November 12 (CAP class meeting and Tacoma Concert Band Rehearsal 7-9:30 PM)
*Attending the entirety of the TCB rehearsal is not required. *
Wednesday, November 19 (optional Symphony Tacoma Rehearsal at Pantages 7:30-10 PM)
*Attendance is not required, and attending the entirety of the rehearsal is also not required. *
Wednesday, December 3 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, January 7 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, January 21 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, February 4 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, February 18 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, March 4 (CAP class meeting and Tacoma Concert Band Rehearsal 7-9:30 PM)
*Attending the entirety of the TCB rehearsal is not required. *
Wednesday, March 18 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, April 1 (CAP class meeting)
Wednesday, April 15 (CAP class meeting)
Thursday, April 30 (Optional Auburn Symphony Rehearsal at Federal Way Performing Arts and Events Center 7-9:30 PM)
*Attendance is not required, and attending the entirety of the rehearsal is also not required. *
Wednesday, May 6 (Optional Symphony Tacoma Rehearsal at Pantages 7:30-10 PM)
*Attendance is not required, and attending the entirety of the rehearsal is also not required. *

FACULTY

Students in the Conductor Apprentice Program will be mentored primarily by Dr. James Welsch, the Music Director of TYSA. The apprentice(s) will also interact with the musical leaders in the South Sound community and its main musical organizations. These mentors would include, but not be limited to, Symphony Tacoma artistic personnel and other professional musicians in the South Sound area.

Learn More about Dr. Welsch

COST AND FINANCIAL AID

After your application materials are reviewed and accepted, the registration fee for this program is as follows:
• $250 for current/former TYSA students
• $450 for all other eligible participants

You have the option of paying online OR mailing a check to the TYSA offices—more information will be shared with you after you have been notified of your acceptance to the program.

Need-based scholarships are available for CAP participants (please submit the “Season Scholarship Application” form to operations@tysamusic.org by October 1st).

Apply for a Scholarship

APPLICATION

The application form, including your personal essay, must be submitted online by October 1, 2025. Your materials will be reviewed, and you will receive a follow-up email to schedule a short interview. Please note that program space is limited.

Conductor Apprentice Program Application Form

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