Austin Classical Guitar Youth Ensembles
The renowned ACG Youth Ensembles bring together passionate young guitarists from all over our city to collaborate, refine, and share unforgettable musical experiences.
ACG Youth Ensembles are open by interview to any classical guitarist under 19 years of age. The Youth Ensembles season runs from September through May, with a winter break. Rehearsals take place weekly at The Rosette, ACG’s home in Hyde Park (3908 Avenue B, 78751).
ACG Youth Prelude
ACGYP is an ensemble for elementary-aged guitarists with at least one year of prior experience on the classical guitar, directed by Tony Mariano. This group serves as a fun and welcoming introduction to ACG’s system of ensembles, focusing on building ensemble skills, collective expression, and teamwork in a safe and supportive environment.
The Youth Prelude meets weekly on Tuesdays from 5:30-6:15pm.
ACG Youth Camerata
ACGYC is an ensemble of intermediate young guitarists directed by Tony Mariano. This group will develop exciting and approachable programs of music and focus on refining ensemble skills and expressivity.
The Youth Camerata meets weekly on Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30pm
ACG Youth Sinfonia
ACGYS is an ensemble of intermediate to advanced young guitarists directed by Stephen Krishnan. This group will continue to develop exciting and approachable programs of music and focus on preparing the necessary ensemble skills and expressivity to be prepared for the ACGYO.
The Youth Sinfonia meets weekly on Mondays from 7-8:30pm
ACG Youth Orchestra
ACGYO is an ensemble of advanced young guitarists. Founded in 2013 under the direction of Dr. Joseph Williams, the ACGYO has performed for thousands in Austin’s most prestigious venues, and has premiered multiple new commissions and arrangements. This group develops challenging programs of music to the highest artistic level. Guitarists are expected to have strong technique, reading skills, and ensemble experience.
The Youth Orchestra meets weekly on Tuesdays from 7pm-9pm
Placement Interviews
Placement Interviews for the 2026-2027 season will take place on May 17th, 18th, and 19th for the ACGYC, YS, and YO, and May 20th for the ACGYP. These interviews are meant to be a non-pressure way for us to see you all and hear each student play before the season begins. We have provided information for what to prepare for the interview below:
- One or two pieces that you enjoy playing (not to exceed 5 minutes).
- 1 or 2 octave major scale of your choice with i – m alternation.
- A short sight reading excerpt in first position with simple rhythms provided at the interview.
Both new and returning students are required to complete an interview in advance of the upcoming season. Please fill out the form below to request an interview time, and reach out to [email protected] with any questions or concerns.