The Maple Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra is opening up to new members for its second trimester, which begins Jan. 11. The orchestra will be holding auditions on 5-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 4 at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 23855 S.E. 216th St., Maple Valley.

The orchestra has been in existence since September 2007 and grown in both size and musicianship. It now boasts three orchestra programs including beginning strings, philharmonia for students with 2-4 years of playing experience, and symphony for students with four or more years of playing experience. They play for community events such as Maple Valley’s tree lighting and the Fourth of July fireworks celebration at Lake Wilderness.

Special second trimester performances include, playing the National Anthems (both American and Canadian) at a Seattle Thunderbirds Hockey Game Jan. 16 at Showare Center, Waltz Gala Ball to be held at Lake Wilderness Lodge Feb. 5.

All rehearsals are held at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Maple Valley.

For more information visit the MVYSO Web site call 425-358-1640 For audition information and registration click on ’09-’10 auditions on the Web site.