New York Construction Report staff writer
The Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO) held a groundbreaking ceremony at the former St. Joseph’s Parish School recently.
Construction, now underway, will transform the 20,000-sq. ft. building into a youth music center featuring rehearsal and recording studios, performance spaces, administrative offices, and a communal kitchen. Construction began on Dec. 1, 2025, with a grand opening planned for late 2026.
The new facility will include acoustically advanced rehearsal and recording studios, performance venues, a high-tech lounge where parents can listen in on rehearsals, and a room sponsored by Bill and Susan Dake of the Stewart’s Shops family. This room will be designed by ESYO youth leaders for planning meetings, leadership workshops, and other activities. ESYO founder Barry Richman will chair the final phase of construction.
ESYO purchased the site for $410,000 in 2022. The original project cost was $10 million, but after recalculating for inflation in 2024, the budget increased to $12.3 million.
Once completed, the center will serve as a permanent home for ESYO students and staff, providing modern spaces for music education, performance, and community engagement in the Capital Region.
