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The YAF Program: Chamber Music, Community Engagement, and More
YAF trains pre-college strings and piano students in chamber music at conservatory standards. From August through April each regular season, YAF curates a variety of performances, events, and opportunities for students to further their development while engaging with communities through arts.
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By organizing chamber ensembles and faculty locally in the South Bay, Peninsula, and San Francisco, YAF provides greater access to exemplary music education and performances throughout the Bay Area.​​​
Broader Opportunities
YAF is for those who choose engagement and experience through the process of music education. Intensive training in chamber music develops musicianship in ways that complement, but are otherwise inaccessible through private lessons or youth orchestras alone.
YAF additionally sponsors a variety of supporting opportunities. From renowned guest-artist masterclasses to solo recitals and professional recording sessions, YAF serves to prepare students for future success in auditions, competitions, and public performances for long after they move on from YAF.
Participation Details
Eligibility
In order to be considered for participation in YAF 2026–2027, students must:
Turn age 9–18 at any point during the 2026–2027 academic year
Have a minimum of 2 years (3–4 preferable) of ongoing private study in their primary instrument
Reside anywhere within commuting distance of Santa Clara County, San Mateo County, or San Francisco
Be committed to attending all assigned coaching sessions, performances, and special events from August 2026 – April 2027
2026–2027 Season Calendar
August​​​​
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Rehearsals Begin​
October
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Performance Seminar I: Soloist Stage Presence​​
November
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Palo Alto Community Event TBA​​
December
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Foster City Holiday Event TBA​​
January
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Performance Seminar II: Public Speaking​​
February
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Guest Artist Masterclass​​
March
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Performance Seminar III: Ensemble Stage Presence​
April
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End-of-season Chamber Music Concert​
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End-of-season Solo Recital​
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Dates and locations are approximate and subject to change.
