Season 2026–2027
Helsinki · Finland
Helsinki’s first English-language youth string orchestra is looking for its founding members.
Open Auditions
A string orchestra for Helsinki’s international families.
There has never been an English-language youth string orchestra in Helsinki — until now.
HELYO brings together young violinists, violists, cellists, and bassists from Helsinki’s international and expat community to rehearse, perform, and grow as an ensemble — taught entirely in English, welcoming to players without a Finnish-language music school behind them.
We’re building this from the ground up in our first season, with a small founding group who’ll shape what the orchestra becomes.
Who it’s for
At a glance.
OPEN TO AGES
10–17
UK MUSIC GRADE SYSTEM
3–5+ (No experience barrier)
INSTRUMENTS
Violin / Viola / Cello / Double Bass
LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION
English
REHEARSAL LOCATION
St Nikolas’ Church / Mikeal Agricola Kirkko – in the GYM
Tehtaankatu 23, Helsinki
TIME
Mondays 16:30-19:00
* Note that our ensembles will expand to match the skill and experience level of our members, including Foundation Strings for beginners and Chamber Ensemble for more experienced players. Please find more information on our Curriculum page.
Limited to our first season
Our Founding Members will shape the orchestra from its first rehearsal.
20 Founding Member Seats
(12 violin, 6 viola/cello, 2 bass)
01
Referral Credits
Refer another family who joins, and both households get a 100,00€ credit toward next term’s fee.
02
Founders Wall
Permanent recognition as a founding member on the website and in every season’s program, not just year one.
03
Priority Access to Future Programs
First registration window for summer camps, masterclasses, or a second ensemble before general sign-up opens.
04
Founders Circle Updates
Stay in touch in the Founders Circle with rehearsal clips, practice tips, and a direct line to the conductor as the season takes shape.
How it works
Four steps from enquiry to your first rehearsal.
01
Fill out the form
Find the application form below. Detail your child’s age, instrument, and how long they’ve played.
02
Book a slot
We’ll offer a short in-person audition and taster session at a time that works for you.
03
Play for us
A short prepared piece and some scales — informal, and about fit as much as ability.
04
Join
We’ll confirm your place within a few days and get you enrolled for the season.
Rehearsals & venue
Where and when we play.
St. Nicholas Church — Mikael Agricola Kirkko
Tehtaankatu 23, Helsinki — rehearsals are held in the Gym (separate entrance to the left of the main church entrance
Mondays 16:30-19:00
Weekly rehearsal, 2.5 hours
Coming 2027
Summer day camp — June
A week-by-week summer strings camp is being planned for June 2027. Let us know you’re insterested – hello@helyo.fi
€800
/ Full season
450€ per term
Two terms: August–December and January–May.
50+ hours of instruction and performance across the season.
- Weekly full-orchestra rehearsal (2.5h)
- 2–3 sectional rehearsals per term
- 2–3 small-group instruction sessions per term
- Two main concerts — December & May, at the church
- Chamber Strings invitational performances around the city