This December, musicians from across the region will gather onstage for one of the most anticipated youth arts events of the season—the Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Winter Concert, presented Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. inside Huff Concert Hall at Methodist University, 140 Robert Johnson Dr.
The performance will showcase the remarkable talent and dedication of young musicians across five ensembles: the FSYO String Orchestra, FSYO Concert Band, FSYO Chamber Strings, FSYO Cello Choir, and the String Sinfonietta. More than just an afternoon of inspiring music, this concert is a celebration of growth, artistry, and the power of youth in the arts.
Tickets are $8 and can be purchased at the door.
For students, families, and lovers of live classical music, this concert offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra —a program designed to enrich music education and provide young musicians with opportunities to share their artistry with the community. Unlike a single orchestra, FSYO is comprised of five ensemble groups, each tailored to different age groups, instruments, and experience levels. Through weekly rehearsals, sectional work, guest instruction, and live performance opportunities, students develop not only in musicianship but also in leadership, discipline, and collaborative artistry.
Participating in FSYO extends a musician’s training far beyond private lessons or school ensembles. Students learn to perform as members of a team, listening, blending, supporting one another, and rising to musical challenges together. With rehearsals held weekly for each ensemble, students refine their technique, deepen their musical interpretation, and gain valuable experience in preparation for public concerts such as this winter's performance.
The Winter Concert highlights each ensemble’s unique sound, from the soaring harmonies of the String Orchestra to the bold vibrance of the Concert Band. Chamber Strings will bring intricate, expressive repertoire to the evening, while the Cello Choir offers a rare opportunity to hear the rich, warm timbre of an all-cello ensemble. Rounding out the lineup, the String Sinfonietta—designed for younger and developing musicians—will show how FSYO cultivates talent from an early stage, preparing students to advance into the more challenging ensembles over time.
These ensembles are guided by an exceptional roster of artistic leaders. Youth Orchestra director Miss Kristin Stiteler, a lifelong educator and accomplished performer, brings more than 26 years of experience teaching orchestra and band. Her musical background spans violin, jazz saxophone, mandolin, and more—expertise she brings directly to the next generation of musicians.
Alongside her is Dr. Daniel McCloud, Youth Band director—an active conductor, percussionist, composer, and educator. His work with FSYO extends beyond directing the Concert Band; he also assists with the organization’s flagship orchestra and composes for ensembles nationwide. His passion for musicianship and performance strengthens the program’s foundations in technique, ensemble playing, and musical excellence.
Also central to the FSYO experience are Mrs. Laurel Wachtler, director of String Sinfonietta, and Mrs. Barbara Shipp, director of the Cello Choir. Both musicians bring decades of professional performance and teaching experience to the program, along with a shared commitment to nurturing young string players. Their mentorship helps early musicians grow into confident, capable performers ready to advance into higher-level ensembles such as Chamber Strings and Youth Orchestra.
With this concert marking the culmination of a semester’s work, FSYO is now preparing to welcome new musicians. Registration for Spring 2026 is open, with auditions scheduled for January 11 and 15, 2026. Students aged 7–21 are invited to audition for placement, and tuition covers participation in all ensembles a student qualifies for. Financial aid is available for those in need, affirming FSYO’s mission to make music education accessible to all. For more information on the FSYO’s program and the auditions for the new season, visit https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/youth-orchestra/.
On Dec. 14, audiences will witness not only a performance but the remarkable journey of young artists learning, striving, and creating something beautiful together. Join the community in celebrating their achievements as the Youth Orchestra’s Winter Concert fills the hall with holiday warmth, passion, and symphonic sound.

(Photos courtesy of Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra)