Black
Hills
Youth
Orchestra

The BHYO is always taking new members! Sign up here to join! All rehearsals and lessons take place in the Minneluzahan Senior Center at 315 N 4th Street in Rapid City, SD.

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The BHYO is currently on it's summer schedule:

3:30-4:30 Lesson Hour

4:30-5:15 Reading Orchestra

5:15 Small Ensemble Rehearsals

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Private Lesson/Academy Hour

Meeting time: Tuesdays, 3:30-4:30pm

In this block, students can receive free musical training from BHYO teaching staff in the form of individual or small group lessons.  Students may also receive non-musical mentorship in the form of career planning advice, assistance with college/scholarship/job applications, and homework help and tutoring. The BHYO has established partnerships with numerous organizations throughout the community to assist with a variety of challenges our students may face (transportation, food security, counseling services, etc). All of this comes from from vetted, background-checked BHYO staff and volunteers or our partnering agencies.

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Reading Orchestra

Meeting time: Tuesdays, 4:30-5:15pm

Musicians of all levels and ages are welcome in the reading orchestra. This group plays around 3 brand new pieces of music each week (usually one beginner, one intermediate, and one advanced). The goal is not to play perfectly, but to practice our ability to read brand new music at sight. 

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Small Ensemble Hour

Meeting time: Tuesdays, 5:15-6:30pm

In this class, musicians of all ages—including adult beginners—are placed in small ensembles of 3–6 players based on their age and playing experience. These groups provide a supportive setting where every participant can actively contribute and grow. With guidance from instructors and opportunities to rehearse independently, musicians gain confidence, improve their playing, and develop valuable life skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership while experiencing the joy of making music together.

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