Recognized as one of the leading orchestral training programs in the nation, the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras (AYPO) provides competitive world-class training and performance opportunities for young musicians ages 7 - 21. With nationally recognized conductors, led by Luis Haza of the National Symphony Orchestra, a dedicated professional staff, and a host of volunteers, AYPO annually selects and trains over 400 of the most talented young musicians from throughout the Washington D.C. Metropolitan area. AYPO is the Youth Orchestra in Residence at George Mason Universitys Center for the Arts and was selected by the Catalogue for Philanthropy as one of the best small nonprofits in the Greater Washington region.