We’re thrilled to welcome everyone—new and returning students alike—to the start of another exciting YAMA year! Our 2025–2026 season will officially begin on October 6, and looking forward to it.

This week marks our special “Welcome to YAMA” week, a time designed especially for brand-new students and intermediate returners. It’s a chance to ease into the season, build connections, and set the tone for a year of growth, music-making, and community.

Throughout this week, students are:

Getting to know each other through name games and fun activities led by incredible team of 14 Teaching Artists
Learning (or refreshing) how to safely handle their instruments
Helping shape our Community Agreements—the shared values that guide how we treat one another and create a welcoming, respectful space for everyone

*2023 First Week of Preludio Violin Sectionals*

One of the highlights of this first week is instrument sizing and lending. Many of our students receive their instruments from the YAMA library, and this process ensures that everyone has the right fit to set them up for success.

This year, YAMA continues to serve a vibrant group of young musicians. Last season, we were proud to work with over 100 students from 23 different schools and home schools across Yakima—and we’re excited to get back to learning.

We’re also continuing with our four-ensemble model, providing musical opportunities for students at every level: Preludio, Chamber, Combo, and Philharmonia, in order from beginning learners to advanced players.

No matter the ensemble, our goals remain the same: to empower students through music, nurture their potential, and build a strong, connected community.

We can’t wait to see what this year brings

Welcome to YAMA 2025–2026!

Welcome to YAMA 2025–2026!

YAMA Goes Camping: Wrapping Up Our Year Together