Established in 1974, The Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra has a history like no other. Born from a symphony orchestra that began as a youth orchestra itself, student education and training has always been paramount. Each year, over three hundred student musicians ages 13-18 audition for the orchestra. Just over one hundred students are selected and dedicate their time to weekly ensemble and sectional rehearsals. The Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra has gained national recognition as one of the best youth orchestras in the country. The only American youth orchestra ever to participate in an Olympic Games, the ASYO was a featured ensemble in the 1996 closing ceremonies. ASYO has also been featured on National Public Radio, WABE, and with the rock group, Collective Soul. The ensemble rehearses and performs in Symphony Hall of the Woodruff Arts Center under the baton of Maestro Stephen Mulligan.