Host Jeremy C. Park interviews Jenny Davis, Executive Director of the Memphis Youth Symphony Program (MYSP), who shares her personal connection to the program as a former participant, and how the nonprofit organization serves as the premiere youth symphony program in the Mid-South and celebrates musical development in a fun, inclusive, and collaborative community. During the interview, Jenny details the organization’s history, structure, and impact, highlighting its inception in 1966 under the Memphis Symphony Orchestra to its growth and evolution becoming an independent nonprofit in 2006. She explains the MYSP’s various ensembles, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, and emphasizes its focus on musical education, teamwork, and character development. She discusses the organization’s operations, including rehearsals, concerts, and collaborations with professional musicians. Jenny also outlines ways the community can support MYSP through financial contributions, volunteering, and spreading awareness about the program.
Summary
The Memphis Youth Symphony Program (MYSP) is building on a 60-year legacy of music education and celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026 as an independent nonprofit. The program serves over 300 youth from more than 80 different schools, offering ensembles ranging from beginner to advanced levels, including two bands, three string orchestras, and two full orchestras. MYSP’s administrative team includes Jenny Davis, who teaches flute at Rhodes College and performs with Blue Shift Ensemble, along with Courtney Fly as Operations Manager and Conductors who specialize in working with young musicians.
Music Education’s Impact on Students – During the interview, Jenny discusses the benefits of music education and mentorship through MYSP, highlighting how students develop skills, character, and confidence through music. Jenny emphasizes the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and personal growth in musical performances, particularly in orchestra settings where students learn to take ownership of their parts and contribute to the overall piece. She notes that while musical progress is visible and concrete, these skills transfer to broader life experiences, including perseverance through challenges and the development of empathy and leadership qualities.
Youth Music Program Structure Overview – Jenny details the structure of their programs, starting with how they conduct auditions in May for ensemble placement and begin rehearsals in late August at the University of Memphis. The program holds four public concerts annually and organizes chamber music performances at community events, with rehearsals taking place every Sunday. The programs aim to develop character and leadership skills alongside musical abilities, with Conductors assigning students to ensembles based on their skill level.
Memphis Youth Symphony Support Opportunities – Jenny discusses ways the community can support the Memphis Youth Symphony Program (MYSP). They highlight upcoming concerts, including the Spring Concert on March 8, 2026, along with the importance of financial contributions and volunteerism. Jenny explains that students of all skill levels, including beginners, can participate as long as they can read music, and she stresses that the program is not just for future professionals but for anyone passionate about playing music. She encourages interested individuals to visit MYSPMusic.org or follow their social media accounts for more information.
Visit https://www.myspmusic.org to learn more about Memphis Youth Symphony Program.
