About Us
The Lawrence Youth Symphony (LYS) was founded in 1967 as an extension to the instrumental music classrooms of the Lawrence Public Schools.. This program is open to all instrumental music students in grades 7 through 12 interested in a fun, yet challenging orchestral experience. Students will have the opportunity to grow as musicians through the repertoire of a true Symphonic Orchestra.
Students seeking to participate in LYS must be active members of his/her school band or string orchestra program. String musicians must have at least one full year of experience on their instrument. Winds, brass, and percussion must have at least two full years of experience on their instrument.
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The group is sponsored by the Lawrence Public School District. Past directors have included Larry Williams (founding director), Lynn Basow, Rachel Dirks, Johannah Cox, Mariah Barnett, and Russell Clark. Lawrence Youth Symphony is currently directed by Dr. Jacob Dakon, Associate Professor of Music Education at the University of Kansas.
Director
Dr. Jacob M. Dakon
Dr. Jacob M. Dakon is Associate Professor and Area Coordinator of Music Education at the University of Kansas where he oversees all string teacher training activities. Prior to his appointment, Dr. Dakon taught string orchestra in the public schools of South Carolina and served as a Suzuki violin instructor at the Appalachian State University Community Music Program in Boone, North Carolina. He holds a Ph.D. in Music Education from The Ohio State University, as well as a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of South Carolina, and Master of Music in Violin Performance from Appalachian State University. His areas of specialization include string class pedagogy, community music, memorization, and music practice. Dr. Dakon remains actively engaged as a clinician, conductor, and performer in orchestral and educational settings throughout the United States.