AYO provides orchestral performance experience for young musicians, and furthers musicianship of members through rehearsals, concerts, education, tours, and community involvement.
Pinkerton conducted the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra for four years (1963-67) where he incorporated select high school student musicians.
Pinkerton's successful approach utilized a collaborative model anchored by the Anchorage School District's music programs.
As AYS Conductor, Pinkerton oversaw the expansion of opportunities to perform throughout the state, and the Anchorage Youth Symphony's reputation grew steadily.
Dewey Ehling replaced Frank Pinkerton as music director of both the Anchorage School District and the youth symphony.
The AYS Music Director/Conductor is Linn Weeda, who studied trumpet with Armando Ghitalla and Roger Voisin and performs with the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra.