The Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestras offers the Percussion Ensemble, a learning opportunity designed to expand the musicianship of young percussionists. The Ensemble is composed of members from all PYSO groups who practice together weekly, following their ensemble rehearsals. The Percussion Ensemble performs on each PYSO concert, providing students with a breadth of performance experience. The Ensemble allows participants to gain experience on a variety of percussion instruments and exposes them to diverse styles of music. The aim is to prepare these young musicians to face any musical challenge they may encounter. Participants are expected to demonstrate skills such as concert snare drum roll, snare drum etude, cymbal crashes, and solos or etudes for keyboard percussion, either two or four-mallet. The Percussion Ensemble rehearses every Wednesday from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at North High School in Phoenix, Arizona. There is no separate fee for the Ensemble, as the students are already members of other PYSO ensembles. The Ensemble's conductor is Todd Betz, who guides the students through their weekly rehearsals and performances. Though the Ensemble does not have a specified duration, it is expected that participants will make a commitment to regular rehearsals and performances. The Ensemble is open to all grades, however, placement in the Ensemble is based on the skills demonstrated during the audition process. Upon completion of their time with the Ensemble, students are expected to have developed a comprehensive understanding of various percussion instruments and styles of music, preparing them for future musical endeavors. The Ensemble serves as a stepping stone, shaping young musicians and providing them with the skills and experience required for more advanced musical opportunities.