Welcome to NoVa Youth Ensembles
Our Mission
The mission of our youth ensemble is to provide an accessible, high-quality musical experience that embraces economic diversity and fosters artistic growth. We are committed to offering an affordable, educational, and engaging environment where young musicians can develop their skills, cultivate a deep appreciation for music, and participate in a collaborative community. Through this inclusive approach, we aim to inspire excellence, promote cultural understanding, and nurture the personal and musical development of every member.
Why NoVa Youth Ensembles?
At NoVa Youth Ensembles, we are committed to making high-quality music education accessible and inclusive for all. Unlike other opportunities that may be located farther away, we offer a convenient local option for families in our community. We proudly welcome all students, regardless of skill level or financial status, ensuring that every young musician has a place to grow and thrive. Our innovative approach sets us apart as one of the first ensembles in the area to embrace a truly inclusive philosophy. Furthermore, our broad vision encompasses a wide range of musical experiences, including orchestra, band, choir, guitar, and percussion, providing students with diverse opportunities to explore and develop their talents. Join us and become part of a supportive, dynamic community where every voice and instrument is valued.
Expected Launch Dates for All NoVa Youth Ensembles
2024-25
String Ensembles for Middle and High School students
2025-26
Wind Ensemble for Middle and High School Students
2026-27
Elementary School Choir
Guitar for Middle and High School Students
2027-28
World Percussion Ensemble
Elementary School Bucket Drumming
All NoVa Youth Ensembles are filled with joy and fun. Our goal is to give each musician the tools to create beautiful music in a relaxed atmosphere. We meet each musician where they are musically and help them grow both musically and personally.
Building Community Relationships and Outreach
The youth orchestra is partnering with area senior centers, The Reston Community Orchestra, Rising Phoenix Performers, Fairfax Loudoun Music Fellowship and public and private schools to inspire, educate and bring music to our communities.
Nina L.
The NoVa Youth Ensemble is a welcoming and accessible group for musicians of all levels. My daughter, who has only had weekly string lessons at school, loves being part of it. She’s excited to be challenged with harder pieces than she gets at school. We are especially impressed by the many performance opportunities, including the chance to play with the Reston Community Orchestra. Performing with a full orchestra and conductor was such a
great experience for her.
Tom B.
Both of my children have been playing instruments in public schools for several years now and Laura and the NOVA Youth Ensemble have provided both more opportunities and experience in the past six months than they've had in the past three years of playing.
While learning and practicing sets you up to be a good player, experience sets you up for greatness…and NOVA offers opportunities for great experiences.
Heidi-student
I LOVE NOVA youth ensembles because it's so great to come together to learn & play music! I think it's important to be in an ensemble because it helps you grow with your musical talents and abilities, this ensemble has also had a great impact on me by helping me grow within my talents with cello & actually helped me find a cello! It's also been fun to play with the Reston Community Orchestra and challenge myself!
Laura Redlisky-Readyoff
Executive Director
Laura Redlisky-Readyoff, founder of NoVa Youth Ensembles and owner of The Music Loft, is a master educator with over 30 years of experience working with middle and high school students. Her educational background includes a bachelor's degree in music education from the prestigious Crane School of Music in New York, as well as master's degrees in music education and public school administration (K-12) from Long Island University. Throughout her career, Ms.Readyoff has conducted award-winning orchestras in both New York and Virginia. Her expertise has led to roles as an adjudicator for multiple solo and ensemble festivals across both states. Currently, she serves as a strings consultant for Loudoun County public schools. Deeply committed to community engagement, Ms. Readyoff is involved in multiple outreach programs and dedicates numerous volunteer hours to string and music programs in Northern Virginia. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes creativity and fun, aiming to build students' confidence, inspire and challenge them, and instill a love for music. Under her leadership, The Music Loft has become a center of excellence for music education, offering various programs including Percussion Works, NoVa Youth Ensembles, and the Play it Forward Instrument Donation Drive. Ms. Readyoff's contributions to the arts community have earned her several accolades, including the "Distinguished Volunteer" and "The President’s Award” awarded by Arts Herndon for her work in the arts community, and the "Arts Leader" award from the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce.