The SPYO program consists of:

• a two week workshop held in Vancouver during the first two weeks of July
• 8-10 local concerts during the last two weeks of July
• a one week tour to play concerts in 6-7 communities throughout BC and Alberta.

Founded in 1986, SPYO was the vision of Garth and Ruth Williams. These talented music educators and accomplished musicians spent the previous year creating a summer orchestra that would encourage musicianship, cooperation and camaraderie to be showcased during the 1986 World Expo held in Vancouver. 

SPYO provides a great way for a musical teenager to spend the summer. The orchestra provides opportunities for teens to play music, to grow personally through rehearsals, performing and touring, to make new friends, and to connect with others who enjoy music-making! SPYO inspires members musically and socially, and reinforces the value of shared effort and commitment. Members become very attached to SPYO with many returning year after year.

Message from the Music Director: Jim Littleford

During my 22 year association with the Summer Pops Youth Orchestra, I have been involved in all musical activities from Brass Coach to Music Director. This year marks my sixth summer as Conductor and Music Director. Since 1986, more than 1,500 students have experienced the SPYO "philosophy" thanks to the leadership and commitment of the founders, Garth and Ruth Williams. Hard work, leadership, teamwork and sharing the joy of making music are the cornerstones of the Summer Pops Youth Orchestra experience.

All musical groups rehearse and play concerts, but SPYO adds another dimension through touring. The orchestra has toured 20 times in its 22 years, sharing its unique concert repertoire not only with Lower Mainland residents and British Columbians but also with audiences throughout Canada, in California and Europe. This summer the orchestra will perform in our own backyard.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our sectional coaches, Board and Committee members, and past and present parent volunteers for their immeasurable contributions to the musical and organizational health of the orchestra. Here’s to many more years of summer music making!

Jim Littleford plays trumpet in Vancouver performing with the Vancouver Opera Orchestra, A Touch Of Brass - Quintet, Vancouver New Music, and numerous other ensembles. Mr. Littleford is on Faculty at UBC and teaches privately. In addition to conducting the Summer Pops Youth Orchestra, Jim is the Founder and Music Director of the Little Mountain Brass Band and Conductor of the Delta Concert Band.

Workshop: July 2-6 and July 9-13 (10am to 3 pm)

Local concerts: dates and times to be announced

Rockies to Ranchlands tour: July 27 - August 3 (to Revelstoke, Banff, Jasper, Quesnel, Barkerville, Williams Lake, and 108 Mile)

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