ONE BAND. ONE SOUND

MUSIC. CULTURE.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

& COHESION.

JOIN THE SOUND ⏎

Welcome to the Hamilton Youth Steel Orchestra (HYSO) If you’re new here, it only takes one visit to become family. So welcome to the HYSO Family! We hope you’ll enjoy your time here and we can’t wait to see you again!

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City of Hamilton 2023 Creator Award

Recipient of the City of Hamilton 2023 Creator Award

The Hamilton Youth Steel Orchestra (HYSO – pronounced hi-so) was founded in May 2004 by Karen Nelson & Cathy Ferreira, both of whom continue to co-manage the program, on a volunteer basis. HYSO is a grass-roots music program with a mission to use music to influence the social development of our children and youth.

Karen and cathy.jpg — Karen Nelson Cathy Ferreira
Recipients of the Order of Hamilton 2023

Our Mission

HYSO has a 3-prong objective that includes:

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Our Impact

In the community…since 2004 more than 350 participants have benefited from HYSO programming that includes: the year-round program, March Break & summer camps. Our young players have contributed more than 10,000 volunteer hours to community events …

450+

participants in the hyso program

20+

Years Serving communities

25+

awards & scholarships awarded to hyso players