[1] Under the artistic leadership of Maestro Simon Hewett since 2020, QYO has 470 members aged from 9 to 24 in three symphony orchestras, two concert bands, two junior string ensembles (as of 2023), a chamber orchestra and a big band.
Each group has its own annual program of rehearsals, tutorials, concerts and, in some cases, music camps and tours.
The leading orchestra, the Queensland Youth Symphony conducted by Simon Hewett, tours internationally every four years and performs an annual concert series at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and The Old Museum.
Performing members of QYO must re-audition for a place each year alongside new applicants.
Three finalists are selected to perform their concerto with the Queensland Youth Symphony at the Finals Concert each October, from which an overall winner is chosen.