Chair/Director Statement
For over three decades the Battle Creek Youth Orchestra has provided music opportunities for youth in and beyond the greater Calhoun County area through rehearsals, sectionals, coaching, performance opportunities, and by maintaining three primary ensembles: the Youth Orchestra, Junior Strings Ensemble and Intermediate Strings Ensemble. Recent additions to the BCYO lineup include Junior Winds, Beginning Violin Ensemble, a flute choir and small ensembles in strings, percussion, winds and brass. In an atmosphere that promotes learning, respect and friendship, BCYO nutures each student as a unique individual.

Organization Description
The BCYO was founded in 1966 by the Morning Musical Club of Battle Creek. The first BCYO of 46 students from Battle Creek, Lakeview, Harper Creek, Springfield, Kellogg Community College, Coldwater and Gull Lake schools presented its first concert in November of that year.

During its 39 year history, BCYO conductors have been distinguished musicians and dedicated teachers. The current director of the Youth Orchestra is Eliot Gitelman, director of orchestras at Sturgis Public Schools and instructor at Interlochen Arts Camp.

The BCYO sponsors three ensembles in addition to the Youth Orchestra: Junior Strings Ensemble founded in 1985, Intermediate Strings (formerly Reading Ensemble) founded in 1988, and Junior Winds, founded September 1999. The BCYO also sponsors a beginning violin class, a flute choir and small ensembles in strings, percussion, winds and brass.