The Portland Youth Philharmonic, an association created to maintain high quality youth orchestras, has been inspiring and educating young people for nearly a century. The association is made up of two full symphony orchestras, a wind ensemble, a chamber orchestra, and one string orchestra. Each section is filled with incredible young musicians, ages 7 to 23, coming from all over the region. One such musician is Chelsea Lin, a sophomore at West Linn High School.

“I’ve been in the PYP orchestra for a year now, but I’ve been in the program since 3rd grade,” Lin, a violinist, said. Musicians like Lin start out in the Young String Ensemble, then work their way up through the programs by proving their ability.

The audition process is a difficult one, requiring students to play a memorized piece and scales, as well as sight-reading.

“It was terrible!” Lin said of her experience. “It was worth it, but really hard.”

Lin has been playing the violin since she was 4 years old, alongside her younger brother Eaton, who is also part of the PYP. Now she practices twice a week at Jackson Middle School, with vigorous practicing at home. The program expects extraordinary discipline and commitment of their players. Those who make it to the orchestra understand that being a part of the Philharmonic is a privilege.

All of this hard work and discipline is displayed in seasonal concerts held at the prestigious Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Performing in such a renound venue may seem nerve-wracking, but Lin says she doesn’t get nervous, “I’m used to performing, so it’s not that scary. We’re mostly just excited!”

Those wishing to see the talents of these extremely gifted young men and women, can purchase tickets now. Tickets for the soonest concert,  Nov. 9 at 7:30 pm, range from $14.00 to $30.00 and are available below.