The orchestra was formed in 1995 through a merger of the Haarlem Youth Orchestra and the Bloemendaal Youth Orchestra and was led by founder and conductor Matthijs Broers until the end of 2023.
The KJO is a symphony orchestra for secondary school students (ages 12-19) and has an average of 30-50 members. Most members study at music schools in the region or with private teachers.
Under the inspiring leadership of the conductor, the orchestra members work on their ensemble playing, technique, interpretation and personal style.
Rehearsals are held every Friday evening in the church of the Remonstrant community in Haarlem. Group rehearsals are regularly held under the direction of rehearsal coaches, and a rehearsal weekend is also scheduled once a year.
The Kennemer Youth Orchestra (KJO) has been led by conductor Christiaan Kuyvenhoven since mid-2024.