Play with us
Since 2013 we connect young classical musicians from Poland, Europe and far beyond. Our mission is to make them enjoy the beauty of timeless music by performing it together as an orchestra. Yet, under the roof of the majestic building of the Szczecin Philharmonic in North-West Poland, we not only play together, but forge friendships, share thoughts, insights and learn from experienced orchestra musicians. We also travel outside of Szczecin to share our passion with the world.

Are you a classical musician aged between 18 and 30? Discover what the International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra can offer you.
There are many reasons to join our youth orchestra

A unique summertime adventure


Every year we invite young classical musicians for a week-long meeting in the Szczecin Philharmonic. The city is located in North-West Poland only a few kilometers from the Polish-German border. Famous for its maritime vibe and its waterfront on the shores of the Oder river, Szczecin is the capital of the West-Pomeranian province. The city’s Philharmonic is famous not only in Poland but far beyond. Awarded with prestigious architectural distinctions, since its opening in 2014, it remains the uncontested icon of the city.
Compared with the Vienner Musikverein when it comes to acoustics, the entirely golden concert hall of the Szczecin Phil. will be your office for the whole ILYO session. Sounds good isn’t it? But it’s only the beginning.

Your week with the international Lutosławski Youth Orchestra will be filled with practice, learning, rehearsals and making music all together with young classical musicians from all over the world, and an international team of experienced tutors. But it will also be a lot of fun, partying and time off to enjoy.


Get valuable experience


Are you interested in improving your skills as an orchestra musician? If yes, the International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra is a project designed for you. You’ll practice a demanding repertoire consisting of works from 20th century classical music. You will be guided by experienced musicians from Europe’s best orchestras (our tutors) and perform under the baton of a knowledgeable conductor. You will also learn and practice the art of playing with an accomplished soloist. Finally, you will experience the excitement of performing before a real audience in top class concert venues.
After completing the ILYO session, you’ll receive a certificate of participation as a proof of your achievement. A valuable bonus to your artistic CV.


Make friends


Every year, International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra attracts young classical musicians from Europe and beyond, giving them an extraordinary opportunity to exchange their experiences, inspirations, motivations and much more. Many of these musicians become friends for life, some even fall in love. You can be sure that while joining ILYO you will find a lot of young and open-minded people sharing the same interests as you.

Easy application


Joining the International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra is a stress free procedure. You don’t need to travel anywhere on any fixed day. Our auditions are fully online auditions. All you need is to send us video recordings of a few required pieces, your CV and to fill up a simple application form on our website. It’s cost free.


Tight budget is not an obstacle


To play with ILYO you only need to cover the cost of your journey to Szczecin and back home. The International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra guarantees to all its members:
  • free accommodation in Szczecin
  • 2 free meals a day (breakfast and lunch)
  • free sheet music
  • free practice rooms in the Szczecin Philharmonic
  • free transportation, accommodation and main meals while travelling abroad

Other reasons


Our musicians can name many more reasons to join the International Lutosławski Youth Orchestra. Have a look at the video below, and listen to their opinions.



If you have any questions or doubts of any kind, feel free to contact at contact@ilyo.pl