AYS has attained a reputation as one of the nation's most prestigious artistic institutions for young people, a rigorous training program for some of the country's best pre-professional musical artists and one of Southern California's most honored cultural treasures. Talent and potential are the only criteria for admittance to the orchestra. Countless AYS alumni are currently members of some of the finest professional orchestras worldwide.

Under the musical direction of Alexander Treger, AYS continues to flourish and nurture young musicians while holding them to the very highest artistic standards.