Day of Debut
Experience the Music. Imagine the Possibilities.
If you’re a 5th–8th grade musician (or a talented 4th grader!) curious about joining the Youth Symphony of Kansas City, Day of Debut is your chance to step into the music. This free, one-day event gives prospective students a taste of what it’s like to rehearse with YSKC, connect with new friends, and meet our inspiring faculty. Join us for one of two immersive sessions—May 20 or May 22 from 4–6 PM at Shawnee Mission North High School—and see what Growth Through Music really means.
Participation in Day of Debut is FREE and counts as your audition for YSKC’s 2025–26 season.
Register below to secure your spot!
(Spots are strictly limited. Deadline to register: May 18.)
If your child is a passionate young musician in grades 5–8 (or a talented 4th grader), Day of Debut is your family’s opportunity to discover what the Youth Symphony of Kansas City is all about.
This free, one-day event is designed to give students a true taste of life inside YSKC. Participants will join a real rehearsal with our inspiring faculty, connect with like-minded peers from across the metro, and get a feel for the vibrant community and high-level artistry that define the YSKC experience. And for parents, this is a chance to meet our leadership team, ask questions, and learn about the life-changing opportunities our programs provide.
Event Details
Dates & Time:
Choose one date: Tuesday, May 20 or Thursday, May 22
4:00–6:00 PM (Check-in begins at 3:45 PM)
Location:
Auditorium & Little Theater At Shawnee Mission North High School
7401 Johnson Dr, Overland Park, KS 66202
Event Itinerary
3:45–4:00 PM – Check-in (Foyer)
Students receive music folders and meet their section leaders.
Parents are invited for coffee and light refreshments.
4:00–4:45 PM – Full Ensemble Rehearsal
Led by YSKC faculty. Parents are invited to a brief welcome session with Executive & Artistic Director Keith Stanfield in the Little Theater to hear about the YSKC student experience and program offerings. Printed materials will be provided.
4:45–5:00 PM – Sectional Breakouts
Students work in small groups with faculty coaches.
5:00–5:45 PM – Full Rehearsal (Open to Parents)
Parents are welcome to watch their students rehearse and observe how our ensembles operate.
5:45–6:00 PM – Q&A and Wrap-Up
Ask questions, meet the team, and learn about next steps.
What to Expect
- A welcoming, no-pressure environment
- Rehearsal music in a range of styles (classical, modern, traditional)
- Guidance from professional musicians and conservatory-trained faculty
- Refreshments and materials for parents
- A pathway into the YSKC program—participation in Day of Debut counts as your audition for the 2025–26 season!
Who Should Sign Up?
We recommend Day of Debut for students entering grades 5–8 in the 2025–26 school year. Talented 4th graders are also welcome to apply – please email hello@yskc for an invitation. No formal audition video or private lesson experience is required to attend.
Register by May 18
Space is limited—sign up early to reserve your spot!

Ready to Register for Day of Debut 2025?
Secure a Spot for Day of Debut
Register now for Day of Debut—a one-day event for 4th–8th grade musicians interested in joining YSKC. Participation counts as your audition for the 2025–26 season. Select your date, share your contact and music background, and get ready to experience a YSKC rehearsal from the inside!
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If you are interested in auditioning for the Youth Symphony of Kansas City, click below to learn more and start your application!