Comprised of approximately 90 members, high school seniors or younger, the Philharmonic is a full symphony orchestra. The combination of strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion makes possible the performance of a wide variety of symphonic music. For some, the Philharmonic is an introduction to advanced orchestral literature.

Under the direction of James Frank, the Philharmonic performs three concerts annually with one of the performances being at the Meyerson Symphony Center.

Repertoire

2009-2010 Repertoire included challenging works such Franck’s 3rd Symphony, Bizet’s L’Arlesienne, Handel’s Music from the Royal Fireworks, and Glinka’s Russlan and Ludmilla Overture.

Soloists

Guest soloists from across the Metroplex frequently perform with the Philharmonic. In February 2006, the Philharmonic performed Hummel's Fantasy for Viola with Soloist Susan Dubois. In the Spring of 2010, David Heyde from the Dallas Symphony Orchestra performed the Mozart Horn Concerto Number 4.

Competition

Philharmonic members are encouraged to enter the Philharmonic Concerto Competition. This competition is held each March, and the winner is invited to perform as a soloist with the orchestra the following fall.

Rehearsals and Requirements

Rehearsals take place at Southern Methodist University on Sunday evenings, from 5:15 to 7:45 pm. All GDYO musicians are expected to participate in their school music programs.