Watch Michael Tilson Thomas lead NYO-USA in a performance of Copland’s “Hoe-Down” from Rodeo as an encore to the ensemble’s performance at the NCPA in Beijing in 2018. For the sixth summer, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute (WMI) brought together the brightest young players from across the country to form the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America (NYO-USA). Following a comprehensive audition process and a three-week training residency with leading professional orchestra musicians, these remarkable teenagers embarked on a tour to some of the great music capitals to serve as dynamic music ambassadors. Michael Tilson Thomas conducted NYO-USA in 2018, showcasing his mastery of a wide range of repertoire, dedication to mentoring young talent, and commitment to the music of living composers. NYO-USA traveled to Asia for the second time and performed a program that included Gershwin’s effervescent Piano Concerto in F Major with pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet—a touchsto