Gemini Youth Orchestra

History:
Founded in 1969 as Training Orchestra, Inc., the Gemini Youth Orchestras consist of a fully instrumented symphony orchestra, two string orchestras, a wind ensemble and a jazz ensemble. Professional conductors complemented by a professional coaching staff present a demanding yet supportive program that challenges students to mature and grow.

From its first rehearsal in 1969, Training Orchestra has continued to provide young musicians the opportunity to study and perform under professional direction and guidance. Through all the changes that some 40 years bring - new musicians and staff, a dizzying variety of rehearsal and performance venues, and even changes in name - Paul Rudoff's vision for a program to serve the musically gifted children of Long Island has remained constant.

Paul Rudoff's passion for conducting, his love of working with children, and his desire to find a way for young musicians to play side by side with professionals led to the founding of Training Orchestra in 1969. The program began under the auspices of the Huntington Symphony. Many of the Symphony's members were coaches and their children were among the first students. The office was in Anne Sanderson's home in Huntington.