The Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra originated as Pittsburgh's PHOENIX Youth Festival Orchestra and was founded by maestro Roger Tabler in 1993 as the country's first youth pops orchestra. In 2009, the name was changed to the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra exists to provide an opportunity for dedicated young musicians from the Greater Pittsburgh area, regardless of economic status, to be exposed to richly varied repertory and performance venues. PYPO provides the members of the orchestra with challenges that will encourage their capabilities, enrich their social lives, involve them in the community, and promote leadership. The quality of their musical performances, the long term commitment to the orchestra by many of the musicians and the large number of alumni who continue their musical careers after graduating are a tribute to the effectiveness of the program.
