Founded in 1956 by music teachers and run by parents, Youth Orchestras of Essex County is New Jersey's longest-operating youth orchestra organization.  Youth Orchestras of Essex County is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Enriching the lives of young people with high-quality music education in a welcoming and fun social environment.

Youth Orchestras of Essex County offers three orchestral  ensembles at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as a jazz and world music ensemble where students learn the art of improvisation.