Begun in the Fall of 2007, the Shanghai International Youth Orchestra is the first community youth orchestra in Shanghai, taught entirely in English (Mandarin friendly), to actively integrate local Chinese students with international students. The orchestra encompasses advanced string students, ages 12-19. The group meets every Sunday afternoon in downtown Puxi during the academic year. A minimum of two public concerts are given in the Fall and Spring, and are held in a professional music venue in Shanghai. Also, community outreach programs are part of the planned performances season. Future plans involve performances in other Chinese cities and collaborations with other music organizations.