The Dresdner Jugendsinfonieorchester am Heinrich Schütz Konservatorium (DJSO) offers students between the ages of 13 and 21 the joyful and educational cultivation of symphonic orchestral literature in a range of styles, without pressure to perform or a mandatory focus on a career in music. In addition to developing playing skills, the orchestra also fosters coordination and, above all, social skills. The DJSO is led by Milko Kersten, who also teaches at the Dresden University of Music Carl Maria von Weber.
Particularly committed and talented members of the orchestra regularly have the opportunity to perform as soloists with the orchestra and present themselves to the public. In addition, the orchestra offers students the opportunity to meet outstanding lecturers from Heinrich Schütz Konservatorium, musicians from the Dresdner Philharmonie, and renowned artists from all genres.
The ensemble currently has 64 members, who work together in weekly rehearsals and regular rehearsal weekends to prepare two to three programs per school year.
In January 2006, the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra became the partner ensemble of the youth orchestra. Highlights of this collaboration are sectional and full rehearsals, as well as joint family concerts.