YES Orchestra
About the Ensemble
Founded 40 years ago, the Youth Ensemble of Strings (YES) is one of the extension programs of the Lincoln Public Schools instrumental music department. Students playing in the YES Orchestra can expect to be challenged musically and technically. This year’s orchestra is open to any student, grades 5-8, that are enrolled in LPS for 2nd semester. Students in YES are required to participate in their school’s instrumental music program.
*See YES Guidelines page for eligibility requirements.
YES Auditions
For those that successfully audition for the 2026 YES orchestra, rehearsals will be Tuesdays from 4:30-5:30pm at Irving Middle School. Our concert is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14 at 7pm.
Auditions for the 2026 YES Orchestra will take place on January 13th and 15th.
Tuesday, January 13th- Violins Only
Thursday, January 15th- Violas/Cellos/Basses
*A link to sign up for an audition time slot will be added here on December 1st.
Directors of YES
Alex Rogers
Mr. Rogers has taught in LPS for 9 years. He is currently the director of orchestras at Moore Middle School. He is the concert master of the Lincoln Civic Orchestra and frequently performs with the Hastings and Lincoln Symphony Orchestras. His main instrument is violin.
Austin Hegert
Mr. Hegert has taught in LPS for 12 years. He is currently the director of orchestras at Irving Middle School. This will be his 6th year with YES! Mr. Hegert also co-directs the Cadenza Orchestra for the String Alliance in Lincoln (SAIL) Camp. His primary instrument is viola.
