The Amarillo Youth Orchestras were founded in 1987 through the collaboration of the Amarillo Independent School District, Amarillo College Division of Fine Arts and the Amarillo College Suzuki String Program.  The Amarillo Symphony was involved in the program from the beginning, and a formal partnership began in 1990. Today, the Symphony considers the youth orchestra an integral part of its educational mission.

The Amarillo Youth Orchestras are a performance-based program for young instrumentalists from around the Texas Panhandle. The four orchestras offer a unique musical experience to young musicians ages 10 to 18 of different skill levels.

Amarillo Youth Symphony serves the most talented young musicians in the Panhandle. Admission for all musicians is by audition only. This prestigious group has performed at the Texas State Capitol and the Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras convention. This group is directed by Russ Teweleit.  Member musicians are enrolled in their school's orchestra or band program, if one exists. Rehearsals are held on Sunday afternoons.

Amarillo Youth Philharmonic is composed of younger, less experienced string students with emphasis on individual and small group instruction and ensemble skills. Admission to this orchestra is by Tune Up placement only. Rehearsals are held on Mondays evenings. Rehearsals consist of small group coaching with professional musicians from the Amarillo Symphony and 45 minutes of orchestra with director Jill Bradford.

Amarillo Youth Sinfonia is made up of young string students with at least one year of experience in their public or private school orchestras. Rehearsals are held on Monday evenings at Amarillo College's Washington Street Campus. The weekly rehearsals consist of 45 minutes of small group instruction with professional musicians from the Amarillo Symphony and 45 minutes of orchestral instruction with director Jill Bradford.

Amarillo Youth Preparatory Strings Class will focus on enhancing the music reading ability and basic instrumental technique. These young musicians will build the skills necessary to play in an ensemble. Rehearsals are on Monday afternoons.