Named a "fantastic cultural treasure" by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Napa Valley Youth Symphony was created in 2002 to provide talented young musicians an opportunity to perform together in a full symphonic orchestra. Coming from over twenty schools in and around the Napa Valley, these young musicians perform some of the greatest works in the symphonic literature and are coached each week by professional musicians. In 2008, the Napa Valley Youth Symphony started Sinfonia, a string training ensemble and in 2009 started Wind Sinfonia for wind and brass players. The Napa Valley Youth Symphony has been recognized for excellence and is supported by many foundations, businesses and individuals.