There’s something magical happening in rehearsal halls across North Texas. It’s not just the sound of violins tuning or trumpets warming up—it’s the unmistakable hum of hope, potential, and purpose. Since its founding in 2022, the Greater Rockwall Youth Symphony (GRYS) has become far more than a youth orchestra. It’s a lifeline, a launchpad, and a labor of love rolled into one.
GRYS provides music education and performance opportunities to over 200 students and counting. While no audition is required, students must be able to read music to join. From beginners to seasoned players, students of all levels are welcomed with open arms—and sometimes with an instrument to keep. GRYS doesn’t loan instruments; they donate them, even to students not enrolled in the program. For many children, especially those from lower-income households, GRYS opens a door to a world of music they never imagined they could enter.
These young musicians don’t just learn scales and sonatas. They build confidence, discipline, and resilience. Many go on to advanced programs, win competitions, and earn college scholarships. But most importantly, they grow as people—learning teamwork, time management, and leadership skills that carry far beyond the stage.
GRYS’s impact extends beyond its students. These musicians regularly perform for seniors, veterans, and nonprofits across the region. To date, they’ve delivered over 100 performances for 11 senior facilities and 9 nonprofit organizations. Their Chamber Music program alone accounts for about 30 performances each year. Every concert is more than a show—it’s a moment of connection, empathy, and service.
At the heart of GRYS is Founder and Executive Director Amanda Casper, a passionate educator and classically trained French hornist. A Juilliard Pre-College alumna, Amanda studied at the Manhattan School of Music and the Cleveland Institute of Music before earning her master’s in Horn Performance at SMU. She brings an additional layer of care as a licensed clinical social worker with degrees in psychology and social work from Case Western Reserve University. Her unique blend of music and mental health experience drives GRYS’s holistic, student-centered mission—one that sees music as a tool for healing and empowerment, particularly for at-risk youth.
GRYS currently offers six full orchestra concerts per year, a summer program, and an upcoming homeschool initiative. Its faculty includes nine dedicated educators and guest artists from top-tier organizations like the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Dallas Opera. Maintaining this level of access and quality requires community support. With venue costs, transportation, scholarships, and staff salaries to cover, GRYS absorbs the majority of expenses so families don’t have to. Right now, 80 percent of students receive financial aid, and 65 percent are on full need-based scholarships.
And the reach is growing—GRYS students now come from seven counties across the region, making its impact broader than Rockwall alone.
Community support makes it all possible. About 95 percent of donations go directly to programming and student resources. Every dollar helps GRYS give more students a chance to find their voice, build their future, and create music that matters.
Want to hear what that future sounds like? Mark your calendar for GRYS’s next full orchestra performance: the 3rd Annual GRYSmas Spectacular on December 5th—a celebration of the season and the incredible talent in our community.
Whether you're a music lover, a parent, or someone who simply believes in investing in the next generation, there’s a role for you. Attend a concert. Spread the word. Donate. Sponsor a student.
Together, we can give every child a voice—and make sure it’s heard.
To learn more or support GRYS, visit: GreaterRockwallYouthSymphony.org.