Big sounds. Bold ideas. And a season that’s just getting started.
If you thought this past season brought the energy, just wait. The 2026–27 TRYPO season is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic yet—packed with ambitious repertoire, new collaborations, and experiences designed to challenge, connect, and inspire every musician in our community.
From Mahler to modern premieres, from side-by-side performances to international travel, here’s your first look at what’s ahead, organized by ensemble so you can dive right in.
Across TRYPO: More Than Just Rehearsals
This season, we’re thinking beyond the music stand.
We’re exploring new opportunities to support the whole musician, including potential programming focused on performance anxiety, mental wellness, and the realities of being a high-performing student.
Think tools for managing nerves, building confidence, and understanding how music fits into your life long-term.
Because great musicianship isn’t just about how you play—it’s about how you thrive.
Big repertoire, big moments, and big announcements still to come.
- 2027 International Tour – destination coming soon!
- Mahler Symphony No. 1 currently anticipated to anchor the season—an epic journey and a milestone piece for any young orchestra
- World premiere by composer Brett Abigana
- Preseason Mini-Camp: August 28–30, 2026
- Earlier concerto competition timeline (Fall 2026 auditions)
- Guest conductor invitations in progress
This is a season about stepping into artistry at the highest level.
Connection, collaboration, and seriously exciting repertoire.
- Season kickoff retreat day at Duquesne University
- Side-by-side concert with Moon High School (January 30)
- A work by composer Viet Cuong, with a composer visit
- Guest conductor to be announced
This season is all about building community while pushing musical boundaries.
Percussion Institute (PI)
Collaboration, creativity, and hands-on music making across every level of percussion study. PI houses opportunities for advanced students (Percussion Ensemble) and beginner students (Percussion Essentials).
Percussion Ensemble
An advanced ensemble for experienced percussionists ready for high-level collaborative performance opportunities.
- Potential side-by-side collaboration with the Duquesne University Percussion Ensemble
- Joint performance featuring Terry Riley’s In C and Eric Whitacre’s Lux Aurumque
- Opportunities for TRYPO students to perform alongside college-level percussionists
Percussion Essentials
An entry-level experience designed for beginning percussionists exploring the fundamentals of percussion playing.
- Instrument petting zoo event: Hands-on exploration of a wide range of percussion instruments, including instruments students may not encounter in school band programs
- Opportunities for younger percussionists to build skills, confidence, and curiosity in a supportive environment
The Percussion Institute continues to provide pathways for percussion students at every stage, from first experiences on an instrument to advanced ensemble performance.
Traditions, growth, and some exciting additions.
- Preseason Mini-Camp: August 28–30, 2026
- Mendelssohn String Symphony
- Nutcracker collaboration with Pittsburgh Ballet Academy at North Block
- Guest artist appearance by SYM Viola coach and TRYPO alum violist Katelyn Piroth
- Mentorship opportunities with YPO students
- Potential collaboration with Percussion Ensemble
- Planning to apply to perform at the PMEA All-State Festival (Erie, Spring 2027)
This is a year of building confidence, community, and new traditions.
Where it all begins, and where the energy is contagious.
- “Tutti Town” kickoff retreat at Duquesne University
- Holiday concert at North Block
- Visits from Symphonette mentors
Tutti Strings continues to grow as one of TRYPO’s most vibrant and welcoming entry points.
Chamber music, elevated.
- Competition Track returns after a successful launch
- First rehearsals: September 26, 2026
- Collaboration with Chamber Music Pittsburgh and Imani Winds + Friends (October)
- ChamberFest: late January / early February 2027
- YC² recitals: December 12 and May 8
This is where artistry becomes deeply personal and collaborative.
APPRENTICE CONDUCTING PROGRAM Explore studying conducting with the Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestra music director Brian Worsdale. Opportunities include traditional classes, immersive experiences, observations, and residencies with our TRYPO ensembles. Further opportunities may include attending rehearsals of the Pittsburgh Symphony and meeting guest conductors and artists that work with our TRYPO programs. Program info packet and registration coming soon!
Mark your calendars—this season is full of moments you won’t want to miss:
- Holiday Concert
- November (North Block): Tutti Strings and Symphonette
- Winter Highlights
- December 13 (Soldiers & Sailors): 2T, SYM, YPO
- January 30: Wind Symphony and Percussion Ensemble with Moon High School
- Spring Finale
- May 23 (Carnegie Music Hall): TRYPO showcase
- YPO Send-Off Concert
- June (date and location to be announced)
- International Tour
- Mid–late June 2027
*Some dates are still under discussion!
