Founded in 1945 by Leo Scheer, under the sponsorship of the San Diego Park and Recreation Department, the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory gives talented student and pre-professional musicians an opportunity to study and perform classical repertoire at a highly advanced level. The sixth oldest continuously operating youth orchestra in the United States, the SDYS program has grown during the tenure of of Artistic Director Jeff Edmons, from one orchestra, to three full symphony orchestras and a chamber orchestra at the advanced level, and four large ensembles for students at the intermediate and introductory levels. In addition, the organization supports a string quartet, woodwind quartet, flute choir, brass choir, two French Horn ensembles, an advanced percussion ensemble, and brass quintet.  Our community partnership with Oak Park School provides elementary school children with a world percussion ensemble as well as classical percussion training. The organization trains over 450 musicians each season.

Musicians who participate in the SDYS programs come from all over San Diego County and as well from neighboring Imperial and Riverside counties. In the 61 years since its inception, the orchestra has represented San Diego abroad in 13 foreign concert tours, performing in 18 foreign countries. In addition to regular concert performances, the orchestra has supported the San Diego Community by participating in civic events and fundraising efforts such as the Mayor's State of the City Address, the County Board of Supervisor's State of the County Address, Opening Ceremonies of the Arco Olympic Training Center and benefits for the San Diego Center for Children, The San Diego Community Foundation, the Mengei Museum and many others. Small ensembles regularly perform at public and private events throughout the year.

Membership at all levels is by audition and ensembles are available for musicians through age 25. For many musicians, the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory has been the impetus for college scholarships and professional music careers, while others find that the adherence to high standards and the self-discipline required for the musicians has provided unparalleled training for future success in any field.