Why Families Choose Claflin Hill Youth Symphonies

The Claflin Hill Youth Symphonies are more than an ensemble program.

For many students, CHYS becomes a place where they discover confidence, build lasting friendships, grow artistically, and become part of a musical community that stays with them long after graduation.

Alumni Stories

“Sunday quickly became my favorite day of the week.” — CHYS Alum

“CHYS gave me playing opportunities that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.” — Matt Perera

“I created lasting friendships through the community of CHYS.” — Matt Pearl

“The friendships and mentorship I benefited from helped inspire me to pursue music further.” — Maya Sagarin

“Playing alongside talented and motivated musicians pushed me to grow and gain confidence.” — Bailey Conkey

A Community Built Around Young Musicians

Students come to CHYS from many different schools and communities across MetroWest and Central Massachusetts.

They arrive with different backgrounds and experiences, but they quickly discover something in common: a love of music and a desire to grow.

Our students work together in an environment that values:

  • Collaboration

  • Respect

  • Curiosity

  • Dedication

  • Encouragement

  • Community

For many alumni, rehearsals became the highlight of the week.

High-Level Music Making

CHYS gives students opportunities that often extend beyond what is available in traditional school music programs.

Students may:

  • Perform advanced repertoire

  • Participate in chamber music

  • Work alongside professional musicians

  • Learn from experienced music educators

  • Build confidence through performance

  • Develop leadership and ensemble skills

Students are challenged artistically while supported personally.

Built by Alumni Paying It Forward

What makes this relaunch especially meaningful is that it is being led by CHYS alumni who experienced the program firsthand.

Anna Damigella, Zachary Surapine, and Augustine Marzoratti grew up in the Claflin Hill Youth Symphonies and are now returning as educators, mentors, and leaders.

They understand the impact that meaningful music education can have on a young person’s life, and they are committed to creating that same experience for today’s students.

Supporting the Whole Student

At CHYS, we believe music education is about more than technical skills.

Music teaches students:

  • Discipline

  • Collaboration

  • Creativity

  • Leadership

  • Confidence

  • Communication

  • Resilience

These lessons continue far beyond the rehearsal room.

A Welcoming Musical Home

Whether a student hopes to pursue music professionally or simply wants to perform at a higher level with dedicated peers, CHYS offers a welcoming place to learn, grow, and belong.

We are proud to serve students and families throughout MetroWest, Framingham, Greater Milford, and surrounding Massachusetts communities.

Join Us

We are actively building our ensembles for Fall 2026 and would love to welcome new students into the Claflin Hill Youth Symphonies community.